impossibility

[ im-pos-uh-bil-i-tee, im-pos- ]

noun

, plural im·pos·si·bil·i·ties

1. condition or quality of being impossible.
2. something impossible.

impossibility

/ ɪmˌpɒsəˈbɪlɪtɪ; ˌɪmpɒs- /

noun

1. the state or quality of being impossible
2. something that is impossible

Word History and Origins

Origin of impossibility¹

1350–1400; Middle English impossibilite < Late Latin impossibilitās. See im- ², possibility

Example Sentences

"There obviously will be strident arguments by Trump’s lawyers to either have the sentencing delayed until after Trump leaves office in four years or to dismiss the case outright. There will be arguments over presidential immunity and the claimed impossibility of Trump serving a sentence while president," Gershman said.

From Salon

Enforcement of the rule would make certification of the Georgia election by Nov. 11, as required by state law, a virtual impossibility.

From Slate

Supporters of gerrymandering claim that legislators remain accountable no matter what because they can in theory still be voted out—even though in practice it’s a veritable impossibility.

From Slate

Following that accident, this moment in Paris must have seemed an impossibility.

From BBC

While Martinez claimed in his dual filings that his ex-wife was attempting to put their son on psychiatric medication without his permission, Berry called that an “impossibility, since for over a year Olivier has interfered with Halle’s ability to obtain even an evaluation upon which any recommendation would be based.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• futility