Word
untouchable
Phoneticsun·touch·able
US/ənˈtətʃəbəɫ/
UK/ʌntˈʌtʃəbəl/
Definition
adj. impossible to reach, touch, or change. You use this to describe someone who is so powerful or successful that nobody can hurt or criticize them.
adj. beyond the reach of criticism, punishment, or physical contact. Often describes a person or entity whose status or power provides immunity from legal or social consequences.
Examples
“The champion seems untouchable after winning ten matches in a row.”
“The corrupt politician believed he was untouchable until the new evidence came to light.”
“In the early years of the tech boom, the company's market dominance made it appear untouchable, but shifting consumer habits eventually eroded its influence.”
Examples
simple
“The champion seems untouchable after winning ten matches in a row.”
contextual
“The corrupt politician believed he was untouchable until the new evidence came to light.”
complex
“In the early years of the tech boom, the company's market dominance made it appear untouchable, but shifting consumer habits eventually eroded its influence.”
Usage
Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'seem', 'feel', or 'become'.
Real-World Examples
“It’s about self-love and love for all the people that we share this planet with.” PK was born into a dalit family, the marginalised group in India formerly known as “untouchables”.” “Watch this video to learn more about why Infantino's power is so untouchable.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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