# impossibility

/ˌɪmˌpɔsɪˈbɪɫɪti/ (US) · /ɪmpˌɒsəbˈɪlɪti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/impossibility
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

something that cannot happen or be done because it is not possible. You use this word to describe a situation that has no solution.

For teachers: the state or fact of being unable to occur, exist, or be achieved. Often used to describe a logical or physical contradiction.

## Examples

- Traveling faster than the speed of light is a physical impossibility.
- The team realized that finishing the entire project by tomorrow morning was a mathematical impossibility.
- The philosopher argued that the coexistence of these two opposing laws was a logical impossibility within a single legal framework.

## Usage notes

- Often follows the indefinite article 'an' when referring to a specific impossible task or situation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.