are impossible to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are impossible to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something cannot be done or achieved. Example: "These tasks are impossible to complete within the given timeframe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Zombies are impossible to eradicate.

The New York Times

Such numbers are impossible to confirm.

The New York Times

Such reports are impossible to verify.

The New York Times

The activists' numbers are impossible to verify.

The New York Times

Some things are impossible to disguise.

The New York Times

"Italian wines are impossible to get.

The New York Times

The Iguanas are impossible to nail.

Independent

Social trends are impossible to predict.

The Economist

"Interpreters are impossible to find.

The New York Times

They are impossible to ignore.

The Guardian

Figures are impossible to obtain.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are impossible to", ensure that the subject you are referring to is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "Mistakes are impossible to avoid", specify "All mistakes are impossible to avoid for beginners".

Common error

Avoid using "are impossible to" in situations where something is merely difficult but not truly impossible. Overstating the difficulty can weaken your argument. Consider alternatives like "are very difficult to" or "pose a significant challenge to" if complete impossibility is not accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are impossible to" functions as a descriptor, indicating that something is unachievable or cannot be done. Ludwig confirms its usage across various contexts to express impossibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are impossible to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey that something cannot be done. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely accepted and used across different contexts, mainly in news, science, and formal communications. When using this phrase, ensure the subject is well-defined and avoid overgeneralization by considering alternatives such as "are very difficult to" when complete impossibility is not precise. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "are impossible to" to communicate limitations and challenges accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be achieved

Replaces the phrase with a more direct expression of inability to achieve a certain outcome.

is simply not possible

Emphasizes impossibility with a straightforward and emphatic tone.

lies beyond the realm of possibility

Uses more figurative language to describe something as not being feasible.

is out of the question

Indicates that something is completely unacceptable or not worth considering.

is not a viable option

Suggests that something is not practical or feasible as a solution.

is unattainable

Focuses on the inability to reach or obtain something, emphasizing the challenge.

is simply unachievable

Highlights the lack of possibility in reaching a goal or completing a task.

is beyond our capabilities

Indicates a limitation in ability or resources to accomplish something.

is not within the bounds of possibility

Emphasizes that something falls outside what is realistically possible.

proves to be insurmountable

Highlights the existence of obstacles that cannot be overcome.

FAQs

How can I use "are impossible to" in a sentence?

The phrase "are impossible to" indicates something cannot be done. For example, "These conditions "are impossible to meet" given the current resources".

What can I say instead of "are impossible to"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot be achieved", "is simply not possible", or "is unattainable depending on the context".

Is it more formal to say "are impossible to" or "cannot be"?

Both "are impossible to" and "cannot be" are acceptable in formal writing. "Are impossible to" may add slightly more emphasis on the degree of difficulty, while "cannot be" is more direct.

Which is correct, "are impossible to do" or "is impossible to do"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "are impossible to do" with plural subjects (e.g., "These tasks are impossible to do"). Use "is impossible to do" with singular subjects (e.g., "This task is impossible to do").