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insurmountable

adjective

/ˌɪnsəˈmaʊntəbl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of insurmountable

Impossible to overcome, conquer, or surpass due to its formidable, overwhelming, or unconquerable nature.
"The prospect of rebuilding after the earthquake felt insurmountable to some."

Detailed meaning of insurmountable

When applied to challenges, obstacles, or difficulties, it signifies that they are so immense or unyielding that no amount of effort, resources, or determination can lead to their successful resolution or victory. For example, an insurmountable barrier could be a physical obstacle or a mental block that seems utterly impossible to surpass or overcome. This term conveys a sense of hopelessness and underscores the extreme difficulty or impossibility of surmounting the subject in question, often leading to a feeling of defeat or resignation in the face of such formidable odds.

Example sentences containing insurmountable

1. The challenge of climbing Mount Everest seemed insurmountable to many.
2. The language barrier presented an insurmountable obstacle to their communication.
3. The financial burden of student loans can sometimes feel insurmountable.
4. The team faced an insurmountable deficit going into the fourth quarter.
5. The maze was designed to be insurmountable, but the clever mouse found a way through.
6. The company's debt had become insurmountable, leading to bankruptcy.

History and etymology of insurmountable

The adjective 'insurmountable' also has Latin origins. It is derived from the Latin word 'insurmountabilis,' which combines 'in-' meaning 'not' or 'un-' and 'surmountabilis' derived from 'surmountare,' meaning 'to surmount' or 'to overcome.' Therefore, the etymology of 'insurmountable' conveys the idea of something that is not capable of being surmounted or conquered. In English, it is used to describe challenges, obstacles, or difficulties that are so formidable, overwhelming, or unconquerable in nature that they appear impossible to overcome or surpass. The term 'insurmountable' emphasizes the daunting and unbeatable aspect of such challenges, reflecting its historical connection to the concept of impossibility due to their formidable nature.

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Further usage examples of insurmountable

1. The emotional toll of the loss was insurmountable and left her feeling numb.
2. The complexity of the project proved insurmountable for many of the team members.
3. The athlete overcame seemingly insurmountable odds to win the championship.
4. The problem was insurmountable until they found a new approach to solve it.
5. The distance between them seemed insurmountable, but they were determined to make it work.
6. The task ahead seemed insurmountable, but they were determined.
7. Their differences created an insurmountable barrier to reconciliation.
8. The mountain's sheer height appeared insurmountable, but they climbed it.
9. The financial challenges felt insurmountable until they found a solution.
10. Overcoming addiction can seem insurmountable, but support is crucial.
11. The team faced an insurmountable obstacle on their path to victory.
12. The language barrier initially appeared insurmountable, but they learned to communicate.
13. Her determination helped her conquer the seemingly insurmountable odds.
14. The maze's complexity made it appear insurmountable to navigate.
15. The insurmountable grief gradually lessened with time and healing.
16. Despite insurmountable doubts, they embarked on a risky adventure.
17. The project's insurmountable challenges tested their skills and creativity.
18. In the face of insurmountable odds, they found inner strength.
19. Overcoming a fear of public speaking may feel insurmountable, but practice helps.
20. The insurmountable divide between the two sides made compromise impossible.
21. The illness initially seemed insurmountable, but she eventually recovered.
22. His insurmountable dedication to his craft made him a master.
23. The problem's insurmountable nature required innovative thinking.
24. The financial debt felt insurmountable until they developed a plan.
25. The insurmountable obstacles they faced strengthened their resolve to succeed.