VocabDictionary

irreconcilable

/ɪˌrɛk.ənˈsaɪ.lə.bəl/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Incapable of being brought into harmony or compromise; so incompatible as to make a resolution or agreement impossible.

Example Sentences:
  • The business partners had irreconcilable differences that ultimately led to the dissolution of the company.
  • They reached an irreconcilable impasse in the peace negotiations.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Late Latin 'irreconciliabilis', combining the prefix 'in-' (not) with 'reconciliabilis' (reconcilable), from 'reconciliare' (to bring together again, conciliate). It entered the English language in the late 16th century to describe people or ideas that cannot be brought into harmony.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'ir-' (not) + 'reconcile' (to make peace) + '-able' (capable of). It describes something that is not capable of being reconciled or resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions About “irreconcilable

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

In English, irreconcilable (adjective) is defined as: “Incapable of being brought into harmony or compromise; so incompatible as to make a resolution or agreement impossible.”.

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

The business partners had irreconcilable differences that ultimately led to the dissolution of the company.

3. What are English synonyms of “irreconcilable”?

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

Derived from the Late Latin 'irreconciliabilis', combining the prefix 'in-' (not) with 'reconciliabilis' (reconcilable), from 'reconciliare' (to bring together again, conciliate). It entered the English language in the late 16th century to describe people or ideas that cannot be brought into harmony.