are irreconcilable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are irreconcilable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two or more things that cannot be made compatible or resolved with each other. Example: "Their differing beliefs about the issue are irreconcilable, making it difficult for them to find common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These policies are irreconcilable.

The Guardian - Opinion

The two are irreconcilable.

The Guardian

The positions are irreconcilable and they will look ridiculous.

Independent

Its aggressive facade and precious interior are irreconcilable.

The New York Times - Arts

The goals of the press are irreconcilable with Cindy McCain's craving for privacy, secrecy, discretion.

The New Yorker

It is, however, wrong to suggest that the two are irreconcilable.

The Economist

Some cities are irreconcilable: Glasgow will never love Edinburgh, and Melbourne will always find Sydney a bit much.

Independent

"The two accounts are irreconcilable and I have had therefore to examine carefully the evidence of other witnesses.

The Guardian - Music

Their actions are irreconcilable with the rights of human beings, the progress of nations, and with Islam.

The Guardian

For most people, career ambitions and quality of personal life are irreconcilable, but somehow Radice makes it work.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The three goals are irreconcilable, and if you go too far in any one direction, the result is trouble.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are irreconcilable", ensure that the subjects being compared are clearly defined and the reasons for their incompatibility are evident to the reader. Providing context helps the reader understand the significance of the irreconcilability.

Common error

Avoid overstating the degree of incompatibility. While "are irreconcilable" suggests a fundamental conflict, consider whether a compromise or partial resolution might still be possible before using this strong phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are irreconcilable" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, describing the subject as being impossible to reconcile or harmonize. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase indicates a fundamental conflict or disagreement that cannot be resolved.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are irreconcilable" is a versatile predicative adjective phrase used to describe fundamental conflicts that cannot be resolved. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical usage is correct. The phrase is most commonly found in news media, science, and encyclopedic contexts, demonstrating its neutral register and wide applicability. When writing, it's essential to ensure that the scope of incompatibility is accurately portrayed and that the subjects being compared are clearly defined.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be reconciled

Emphasizes the impossibility of resolving differences or conflicts.

are incompatible

Focuses on the lack of alignment or harmony between elements.

are not reconcilable

A more formal and emphatic way of stating the impossibility of reconciliation.

are in conflict

Highlights the clashing nature of the elements in question.

are mutually exclusive

Implies that the elements cannot coexist or both be true.

are at odds

Suggests a state of disagreement or opposition.

cannot be harmonized

Focuses on the inability to bring elements into agreement or balance.

are divergent

Highlights the elements' tendency to move in different directions.

present a contradiction

Emphasizes the presence of conflicting elements.

stand in opposition

Highlights the opposing nature of the elements.

FAQs

How can I use "are irreconcilable" in a sentence?

You can use "are irreconcilable" to describe differences, beliefs, or ideas that cannot be brought into agreement. For example, "The two accounts "are irreconcilable"" or "Their political views "are irreconcilable"".

What's the difference between "are irreconcilable" and "are incompatible"?

"Are irreconcilable" implies a stronger, more fundamental conflict that makes agreement impossible, while "are incompatible" suggests a lack of harmony that might still be overcome.

What can I say instead of "are irreconcilable"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot be reconciled", "are in conflict", or "are mutually exclusive" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "are irreconcilable"?

Use "are irreconcilable" when describing situations where there is a deep, unresolvable conflict or disagreement. Make sure that the differences are fundamental and not easily compromised.