Explanation at your level:
Hello! 'Impossible' means something that can never happen. You cannot do it. For example, it is impossible for a fish to walk on land. It's like saying 'no way!' It's not just hard; it's something that is not possible at all. Think about flying without wings – that is impossible for people. We use this word when something is very, very, very sure to not happen. It's the opposite of 'possible'. So, if something is possible, you can do it or it can happen. If it's impossible, you absolutely cannot.
The word impossible is used to describe something that cannot be done or cannot happen. It's stronger than just 'difficult'. For example, if you need to finish a big project in one hour, that might be impossible. It means there is no way to achieve it. You can say, 'It's impossible to see in the dark without a light.' This means you can never see in the dark without help. We use it when we are sure something will not happen or cannot be done.
When you describe something as impossible, you mean it is not possible to do, achieve, or happen. It goes beyond being merely difficult; it suggests a complete lack of feasibility. For instance, 'He claims he can run a marathon in under an hour, but that's impossible.' This implies that current human capabilities or the laws of physics make it unachievable. You might also hear it in phrases like 'an impossible task,' referring to a job that cannot be completed successfully, or 'an impossible situation,' where there is no apparent solution.
Impossible signifies a state or outcome that cannot be achieved, accomplished, or realized under any circumstances. It denotes a fundamental lack of possibility, often due to inherent limitations, contradictions, or the constraints of reality. For example, 'It's impossible to prove a negative' is a common assertion in logic, meaning you cannot definitively show that something doesn't exist or isn't true. The word carries a strong sense of finality and often implies that an attempt would be futile. It can be used both literally, as in 'an impossible geometric construction,' and figuratively, to express extreme difficulty or frustration.
The adjective impossible denotes an absolute lack of possibility, suggesting that an event, action, or state is incapable of occurring or being brought about. This can stem from logical contradictions, physical impossibilities, or insurmountable obstacles. In philosophical contexts, one might discuss 'logically impossible' scenarios, such as a square circle. In practical terms, it describes situations where all conceivable avenues for success are blocked, rendering the objective unattainable. For instance, 'Given the current economic climate, a 50% profit margin is virtually impossible.' The term implies a definitive barrier, distinguishing it from mere difficulty or improbability.
Impossible denotes a state of absolute negation of possibility, indicating that something cannot exist, occur, or be accomplished, often due to inherent contradictions, violations of natural laws, or absolute constraints. It can be employed in theoretical discussions, such as exploring 'impossible worlds' in modal logic, or in pragmatic contexts where all avenues to success are definitively closed. For example, 'The impossible demands of the client rendered the negotiation futile.' The word carries significant weight, suggesting not just improbability but a fundamental barrier. Its usage can range from the literal (e.g., 'an impossible feat of engineering') to the hyperbolic, emphasizing extreme difficulty or frustration within a given framework.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Means something cannot be done or happen.
- Stronger than 'difficult'; implies zero possibility.
- Used in contexts of limits, challenges, and unachievable goals.
- Can be used literally or hyperbolically.
Hey there! Let's dive into the word impossible. It's a super useful adjective that we use when something is just, well, not going to happen! Think of it as the ultimate 'no way!' for situations or tasks. When you say something is impossible, you're really emphasizing that it's beyond any possibility of being achieved or existing.
It's a strong word, so we usually reserve it for things that are truly unachievable. It's not just difficult; it's literally outside the bounds of what can be done. We often use it to express frustration, surprise, or even a sense of wonder about things that defy logic or physical laws. So, next time you encounter something that seems utterly unfeasible, impossible is probably the word you're looking for!
The word impossible has a pretty straightforward journey into English! It comes to us from the Latin word impossibilis, which is a combination of 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'possibilis' (meaning 'possible'). So, literally, it means 'not possible'.
This Latin term made its way into Old French as impossibles, and from there, it was adopted into Middle English around the 14th century. You can see how languages borrow and adapt words over time! It's fascinating to think that this concept of 'not possible' has been around and named for centuries. The idea itself is probably as old as humanity, but the word we use to express it has a clear linguistic lineage. It’s a great example of how Latin roots have shaped so much of our English vocabulary, especially for abstract concepts.
We use impossible when we want to say something is completely unachievable. It's a strong word, so it's best used when something is genuinely beyond possibility, not just very difficult. For instance, 'Climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops is impossible.' That's a clear case where the conditions and equipment make it so.
You'll often hear it in phrases like 'an impossible task,' 'an impossible situation,' or 'it's impossible to know.' These collocations highlight the extreme nature of the challenge. In casual conversation, people might use it a bit more loosely, like 'This traffic is impossible!' meaning it's extremely bad, but perhaps not literally unmovable. However, in more formal or technical contexts, it's important to maintain its strict meaning of 'not possible'.
While 'impossible' itself is straightforward, it features in expressions that add color and emphasis:
- When pigs fly: This idiom means something is completely impossible and will never happen. Example: 'He'll pay you back the money? Yeah, when pigs fly!'
- The impossible is nothing: This is a more optimistic phrase, often used in advertising, suggesting that great achievements are possible if one tries hard enough, challenging the notion of impossibility. Example: 'With dedication and hard work, the impossible is nothing.'
- An impossible dream: Refers to a goal or aspiration that seems completely unattainable. Example: 'Winning the lottery twice is like chasing an impossible dream.'
- Make the impossible possible: This phrase highlights achieving something that was previously thought to be unachievable. Example: 'The team managed to make the impossible possible by finishing the project ahead of schedule.'
- An impossible situation: Describes a predicament with no easy or apparent solution, often involving conflicting demands. Example: 'Caught between two deadlines, she found herself in an impossible situation.'
Impossible is an adjective, so it describes nouns. It doesn't change form for plurals or different tenses because it's not a verb or a noun itself. You can use it before a noun ('an impossible task') or after a linking verb like 'to be' ('The task is impossible').
Pronunciation can vary slightly between British and American English, but the core sounds are the same. The stress is on the second syllable: im-POSS-i-ble. It rhymes with words like 'possible' (though it's the opposite meaning!) and 'plausible'. Some common pronunciation errors might involve misplacing the stress or not clearly articulating the 'p' and 'b' sounds. Listen carefully to native speakers to get it just right!
Fun Fact
The word entered English in the 14th century, around the same time that concepts of chivalry and grand quests were popular in literature, where 'impossible' tasks were common themes.
Pronunciation Guide
Starts with a short 'i' sound like in 'in', followed by 'poss' with an 'o' sound like in 'pot', then a soft 'uh' sound, and ends with 'bull' like in 'bull'.
Similar to UK, but the 'o' sound in 'poss' is more open, like the 'ah' in 'father'.
Common Errors
- Misplacing stress (e.g., stressing the first syllable).
- Pronouncing the 'o' sound incorrectly.
- Not clearly enunciating the final '-ble' sound.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Generally easy to understand, but nuances exist at higher levels.
Straightforward adjective usage, but careful distinction from similar words is needed.
Easy to pronounce, but using it appropriately requires understanding context.
Clearly identifiable word.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Placement
an impossible situation
Using Infinitives After Adjectives
It is impossible to know.
Comparisons (Superlatives)
This is the most impossible task ever!
Examples by Level
A cat can fly. This is impossible.
A cat can fly. This is not possible.
'is' connects the subject 'This' to the adjective 'impossible'.
You can run faster than a car. Impossible!
You can run faster than a car. Not possible!
Exclamations like 'Impossible!' express strong feelings.
It is impossible to eat rocks.
It is not possible to eat rocks.
The structure 'It is + adjective' is common.
My toy is broken. It is impossible to fix.
My toy is broken. It is not possible to fix.
'to fix' is an infinitive verb.
Can you swim in the sky? No, impossible.
Can you swim in the sky? No, not possible.
'Can you...?' asks about ability.
This puzzle is too hard. Maybe impossible.
This puzzle is too hard. Maybe not possible.
'Maybe' suggests uncertainty.
A dog that talks? That's impossible!
A dog that talks? That's not possible!
'That's' is a contraction of 'That is'.
I want to fly. But it is impossible for me.
I want to fly. But it is not possible for me.
'for me' specifies who it's impossible for.
Climbing that huge mountain in one day is impossible.
Climbing that big mountain in one day is not possible.
The gerund 'Climbing' acts as the subject of the sentence.
Without a map, finding the hidden treasure would be impossible.
Without a map, finding the hidden treasure would be not possible.
'Would be' suggests a hypothetical situation.
It's impossible to breathe underwater without special equipment.
It's not possible to breathe underwater without special equipment.
Contraction 'It's' for 'It is'.
She tried to lift the giant rock, but it was impossible.
She tried to lift the giant rock, but it was not possible.
'but' connects two contrasting ideas.
Learning a new language in just one week is nearly impossible.
Learning a new language in just one week is almost not possible.
'nearly' means almost.
They said the mission was impossible, but they succeeded.
They said the mission was not possible, but they succeeded.
'succeeded' is the past tense of 'succeed'.
For a mouse, escaping the cat's claws seems impossible.
For a mouse, escaping the cat's claws seems not possible.
'seems' indicates appearance or impression.
If you don't study, passing the exam will be impossible.
If you don't study, passing the exam will be not possible.
'If... then' structure implies a condition.
The engineers deemed the project impossible due to budget constraints.
The engineers judged the project not possible because of money limits.
'deemed' means judged or considered.
It's virtually impossible to predict the exact weather a month in advance.
It's almost not possible to predict the exact weather a month ahead.
'virtually' means almost or practically.
She faced an impossible choice between her career and her family.
She faced a not possible choice between her job and her family.
'choice' is a noun; 'impossible' describes it.
Many believed that flying was an impossible dream until the Wright brothers proved them wrong.
Many believed that flying was a not possible dream until the Wright brothers proved them wrong.
'until' introduces a time clause.
The sheer complexity of the task made it seem impossible.
The great complexity of the task made it seem not possible.
'sheer' means complete or utter.
He has an impossible schedule, working two jobs and studying full-time.
He has a not possible schedule, working two jobs and studying full-time.
'schedule' is a noun referring to planned activities.
Without a breakthrough, finding a cure for the disease remains impossible.
Without a major discovery, finding a cure for the disease remains not possible.
'remains' indicates a continuing state.
They tried to negotiate, but the demands were simply impossible.
They tried to negotiate, but the demands were simply not possible.
'demands' are requests made forcefully.
The sheer scale of the rescue operation made success seem almost impossible.
The great size of the rescue effort made success seem almost not possible.
'Scale' refers to the size or extent.
Given his lack of experience, it was considered impossible for him to lead the team.
Considering his lack of experience, it was thought not possible for him to lead the team.
'Given' here means 'considering' or 'because of'.
The politician's promises were so outlandish they bordered on the impossible.
The politician's promises were so strange they were almost not possible.
'bordered on' means was very close to.
Achieving world peace is often described as an impossible, albeit noble, aspiration.
Achieving world peace is often described as a not possible, although worthy, goal.
'albeit' is a formal conjunction meaning 'although'.
The detective found the alibi to be impossible to verify.
The detective found the alibi to be not possible to check.
'alibi' is evidence that someone was elsewhere when a crime occurred.
Some argue that true artificial general intelligence remains fundamentally impossible.
Some argue that real artificial general intelligence remains fundamentally not possible.
'fundamentally' means basically or essentially.
The conditions were so treacherous that completing the climb seemed impossible.
The conditions were so dangerous that finishing the climb seemed not possible.
'treacherous' means dangerously unstable and unpredictable.
He dismissed the suggestion as utterly impossible and a waste of time.
He dismissed the suggestion as completely not possible and a waste of time.
'dismissed' means regarded as unworthy of consideration.
The theoretical physicist explored scenarios that pushed the boundaries of what was considered physically impossible.
The theoretical physicist explored situations that pushed the limits of what was considered physically not possible.
'scenarios' are hypothetical situations.
Critics argued that the artist's vision was so avant-garde as to be practically impossible to realize within the existing medium.
Critics argued that the artist's vision was so experimental as to be practically not possible to achieve within the current art form.
'avant-garde' refers to new and experimental ideas, especially in the arts.
The diplomat found himself in an impossible bind, needing to satisfy two opposing factions.
The diplomat found himself in a not possible predicament, needing to satisfy two conflicting groups.
'bind' is a difficult or awkward situation.
While romanticized in literature, the idea of a perfectly just society remains an impossible ideal.
While romanticized in literature, the idea of a perfectly fair society remains a not possible ideal.
'ideal' is a principle or standard of perfection.
The sheer audacity of the plan made its success seem impossible, yet strangely compelling.
The great boldness of the plan made its success seem not possible, yet strangely attractive.
'audacity' means boldness or daring.
His detractors claimed his business model was fundamentally flawed and destined for impossible growth.
His opponents claimed his business strategy was fundamentally flawed and destined for not possible growth.
'detractors' are people who criticize.
The paradox suggests a situation that is logically impossible, challenging our understanding of causality.
The paradox suggests a situation that is logically not possible, challenging our understanding of cause and effect.
'causality' is the relationship between cause and effect.
She navigated the bureaucratic labyrinth with a skill that made the impossible seem routine.
She navigated the complex bureaucracy with a skill that made the not possible seem normal.
'labyrinth' refers to a complicated network or path.
The philosophical inquiry grappled with the concept of a necessarily impossible being.
The philosophical investigation struggled with the idea of a necessarily not possible entity.
'necessarily' means in a way that cannot be avoided.
Contemporary art often challenges conventional notions by presenting works that are aesthetically or conceptually impossible.
Modern art often challenges accepted ideas by presenting works that are visually or conceptually not possible.
'conceptually' relates to abstract ideas or concepts.
The novel's intricate plot relied on a series of coincidences so improbable as to be virtually impossible.
The novel's complex story depended on a series of chance events so unlikely as to be practically not possible.
'improbable' means unlikely to happen.
He possessed a rare talent for making the seemingly impossible achievable through sheer determination.
He possessed a rare talent for making the apparently not possible achievable through pure determination.
'seemingly' means appearing to be.
The expedition faced logistical hurdles that rendered the final ascent practically impossible.
The journey faced practical difficulties that made the final climb practically not possible.
'logistical hurdles' are problems related to planning and organization.
The paradox of Zeno's dichotomy posits an argument for motion being impossible.
Zeno's paradox of the dichotomy proposes an argument for movement being not possible.
'posits' means to put forward as a basis for argument.
Her ability to remain calm under extreme pressure made her an invaluable asset, turning impossible situations into manageable ones.
Her ability to remain calm under extreme stress made her a very valuable person, turning not possible situations into controllable ones.
'invaluable' means extremely useful.
The sheer computational power required to simulate such a complex system renders the task computationally impossible with current technology.
The great computing power needed to simulate such a complex system makes the task computationally not possible with today's technology.
'computationally' relates to the process of using computers.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"When pigs fly"
Something that will never happen.
He says he'll clean his room this weekend? Yeah, right, when pigs fly!
casual"The impossible is nothing"
A motivational phrase suggesting that great achievements are possible with effort.
With hard work and belief, the impossible is nothing.
neutral/inspirational"An impossible dream"
A goal or hope that seems completely unattainable.
She knew pursuing a career in opera was an impossible dream for someone with her voice.
neutral/literary"Make the impossible possible"
To achieve something that was previously thought to be unachievable.
The team's dedication made the impossible possible.
inspirational"An impossible situation"
A difficult predicament with no easy solution.
Caught between his boss's orders and his conscience, he faced an impossible situation.
neutral"Out of the question"
Not allowed or definitely not going to happen.
A vacation during the busiest season? That's completely out of the question.
casualEasily Confused
Both words suggest a lack of likelihood.
'Impossible' means cannot happen (0% chance). 'Improbable' means unlikely to happen (low chance, but >0%).
It's <strong>impossible</strong> for me to fly without a plane. It's <strong>improbable</strong> that it will rain today, but not impossible.
Both suggest something cannot be done.
'Impossible' is absolute. 'Unfeasible' often implies impracticality due to cost, resources, or logistics, even if theoretically possible.
Building a time machine is currently <strong>impossible</strong>. Launching that project with the current budget is <strong>unfeasible</strong>.
Both describe challenges.
'Difficult' means hard to do but possible. 'Impossible' means cannot be done.
Solving this complex math problem is <strong>difficult</strong>. Teleporting across the room is <strong>impossible</strong>.
Both suggest something is hard to accept or imagine.
'Impossible' means cannot happen. 'Inconceivable' means hard to imagine or believe, often implying surprise, but it might still be possible.
It was <strong>inconceivable</strong> that she would win. The speed of light is a limit that is <strong>impossible</strong> to exceed.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + is/seems/appears + impossible.
The situation seems impossible.
It + is + impossible + to + infinitive.
It is impossible to predict the future.
An + impossible + noun.
She faced an impossible choice.
Making the impossible + possible.
The team is known for making the impossible possible.
Adverb + impossible (e.g., virtually impossible, utterly impossible).
Given the evidence, it's virtually impossible.
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
'Impossible' means absolutely cannot be done. Using it for difficult tasks weakens its meaning.
There's a difference between something that has zero chance of happening and something that just has a low chance.
Putting stress on the wrong syllable can make the word hard to understand.
Constant use of 'impossible' for everyday inconveniences can sound overly dramatic or insincere.
It's not a noun or verb, so it doesn't have plural forms or verb conjugations.
Tips
Sound Association
Break 'impossible' into 'im-POSS-ible'. The 'POSS' sounds like 'pause'. If something is impossible, you have to pause and stop because it can't be done.
Reserve for True Impossibility
Avoid using 'impossible' for merely difficult tasks. Save it for situations that are genuinely unachievable to maintain its impact.
Motivational Use
Recognize that phrases like 'making the impossible possible' are common motivational tools, reframing challenges as opportunities.
Adjective Placement
Remember 'impossible' is an adjective. It usually comes before a noun (an impossible task) or after a linking verb (the task is impossible).
Stress is Key
Pay attention to the stress on the second syllable: im-<strong>POSS</strong>-i-ble. This is crucial for clear pronunciation.
Don't Confuse with 'Improbable'
Understand the difference: 'Impossible' means zero chance; 'Improbable' means low chance. Using them interchangeably can cause confusion.
Ancient Roots
The concept of impossibility is ancient, but the word 'impossible' has a direct lineage from Latin 'impossibilis', showing how fundamental this idea is to human language.
Contrast with 'Possible'
Actively compare and contrast 'impossible' with its antonym 'possible'. Create sentences using both to solidify the difference in meaning.
Hyperbole in Casual Talk
Be aware that people often use 'impossible' as hyperbole (exaggeration) in casual conversation for things that are just very difficult or frustrating.
Build Related Words
Learn 'impossibility' (noun) and 'impossibly' (adverb) alongside 'impossible' to expand your vocabulary range.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'im-POSS-ible'. The 'POSS' sounds like 'pause'. If something is impossible, you have to 'pause' and stop trying because it can't be done.
Visual Association
Imagine trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle on a tightrope – that's an impossible act!
Word Web
Challenge
Try to list three things that are genuinely <strong>impossible</strong> (like pigs flying) and three things that are just very difficult (like learning a new language).
Word Origin
Latin
Original meaning: 'Not able to be done' (in- 'not' + possibilis 'possible')
Cultural Context
While generally not sensitive, overuse for minor inconveniences can sometimes sound whiny or overly dramatic.
In English-speaking cultures, 'impossible' is used to denote a strong sense of finality. It can be used dramatically in everyday conversation or in motivational contexts to challenge limits.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Problem Solving
- This is an impossible problem.
- It seems impossible to find a solution.
- We need to make the impossible possible.
Expressing Limits
- It's impossible to know for sure.
- That's physically impossible.
- The demands are impossible.
Describing Challenges
- It was an impossible task.
- She faced an impossible situation.
- His schedule is impossible.
Motivational/Inspirational
- Believe you can achieve the impossible.
- Nothing is impossible if you try hard enough.
- The impossible is nothing.
Conversation Starters
"What's something you once thought was impossible but you managed to do?"
"Have you ever faced a situation that felt truly impossible?"
"What's the most impossible thing you can imagine happening?"
"Do you believe in 'making the impossible possible'?"
"What's a common saying about impossible things you know?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you felt something was impossible. What changed?
Write about a goal that seems impossible right now. What small step could you take towards it?
Imagine a world where anything is possible. What would it be like?
Reflect on the difference between 'difficult' and 'impossible' in your own life.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions'Difficult' means something requires a lot of effort but can still be done. 'Impossible' means it cannot be done at all, no matter the effort.
Sometimes, in casual speech, people use 'impossible' hyperbolically to mean 'very, very unlikely' or 'extremely difficult'. However, in formal contexts, it strictly means 'not possible'.
Generally, it's negative as it denotes a lack or failure. However, it can be used positively in motivational contexts, like 'making the impossible possible', to signify overcoming great odds.
The most direct opposite is 'possible'. Other related opposites include 'feasible', 'achievable', and 'likely'.
The stress is on the second syllable: im-<strong>POSS</strong>-i-ble. Listen to native speakers or use an online pronunciation guide for UK and US versions.
Yes, common ones include 'When pigs fly' (never happens) and 'an impossible dream' (an unattainable goal).
'Unfeasible' is often used in project management or business contexts to describe a plan that is not practical or workable, even if theoretically possible. 'Impossible' suggests a more absolute lack of possibility.
The noun form is 'impossibility', meaning the state or fact of being impossible.
Test Yourself
A fish cannot live on land. It is ____.
'Impossible' means something cannot happen. A fish cannot live on land, so it is impossible.
Which word means the opposite of 'impossible'?
'Possible' means something can be done or can happen, which is the direct opposite of 'impossible'.
It is impossible to breathe underwater without any equipment.
Humans cannot breathe underwater naturally; it requires special equipment, making it impossible without it.
Word
Meaning
These pairs match common phrases with their meanings.
The correct sentence is 'This task is impossible.'
The sheer amount of data made the analysis seem ____.
'Impossible' fits the context of a very large amount of data making analysis extremely difficult or unfeasible.
Which situation is most likely described as 'impossible'?
A logical contradiction (like a square circle) is fundamentally impossible, whereas the others are merely very difficult or challenging.
The phrase 'make the impossible possible' suggests achieving something that was previously considered unachievable.
This phrase is used to describe overcoming significant obstacles and achieving what was thought to be beyond reach.
His claims were so outlandish they bordered on the ____.
'Impossible' fits the context of claims being so extreme they are not realistically achievable or believable.
The philosophical concept of a necessarily ____ being challenges fundamental logic.
A 'necessarily impossible being' is a contradiction in terms, making it a subject of philosophical debate about logic and existence.
Score: /10
Summary
Impossible means absolutely cannot be done, not just very hard.
- Means something cannot be done or happen.
- Stronger than 'difficult'; implies zero possibility.
- Used in contexts of limits, challenges, and unachievable goals.
- Can be used literally or hyperbolically.
Sound Association
Break 'impossible' into 'im-POSS-ible'. The 'POSS' sounds like 'pause'. If something is impossible, you have to pause and stop because it can't be done.
Reserve for True Impossibility
Avoid using 'impossible' for merely difficult tasks. Save it for situations that are genuinely unachievable to maintain its impact.
Motivational Use
Recognize that phrases like 'making the impossible possible' are common motivational tools, reframing challenges as opportunities.
Adjective Placement
Remember 'impossible' is an adjective. It usually comes before a noun (an impossible task) or after a linking verb (the task is impossible).
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More general words
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
