VocabDictionary

impossible

/ɪmˈpɒs.ə.bəl/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Not able to occur, exist, or be done; incapable of being achieved or fulfilled.

Example Sentences:
  • It is impossible to please everyone all of the time.
  • The rescue team faced an impossible task in the middle of the storm.
2.adjective

Very difficult to deal with or tolerate; unreasonable.

Example Sentences:
  • He was in an impossible mood after the meeting.
  • She found the new regulations absolutely impossible to work with.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “impossible”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'impossible', from Old French, and ultimately from the Latin 'impossibilis', formed by the prefix 'in-' (not) + 'possibilis' (able to be done), from 'posse' (to be able).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

I'm-possible: If you look closely at the word, it literally contains the phrase 'I'm possible', which is a common motivational play on words to overcome the impossible.

Frequently Asked Questions About “impossible

1. What is the meaning of “impossible” in English?

In English, impossible (adjective) is defined as: “Not able to occur, exist, or be done; incapable of being achieved or fulfilled.”.

2. How do you use “impossible” in a sentence?

It is impossible to please everyone all of the time.

3. What are English synonyms of “impossible”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “impossible”?

Derived from the Middle English 'impossible', from Old French, and ultimately from the Latin 'impossibilis', formed by the prefix 'in-' (not) + 'possibilis' (able to be done), from 'posse' (to be able).