be beyond reach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be beyond reach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unattainable or inaccessible. Example: "Despite her efforts to connect with him, his feelings seemed to be beyond reach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Robert M. Groves, the census director, said that with response rates to most surveys declining for decades, he had expected that the 2000 rate would be "beyond reach".

The New York Times

By then prizes may be beyond reach.

Independent

Although there are some who may be beyond reach.

The Guardian

At many points in this fortnight of marathon negotiating sessions, it looked as if a deal might be beyond reach.

The Guardian

Incorporation of damage accumulation into a model that accounts for microstructural effects has been a goal that appears to be beyond reach.

Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics

This interest may be achieved through regulation at the parent level, notwithstanding that the activities of the foreign subsidiary may be beyond reach.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

But prices there were beyond reach.

The New York Times

But Jagr was beyond reach.

The New York Times - Sports

You guys are beyond reach and I'm going home.

The New York Times

"He was so wounded by then that any recovery was beyond reach.

Independent

Booker found that sometimes even the simplest ambitions were beyond reach.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be beyond reach" to describe goals, objects, or concepts that are currently impossible to attain or access. This phrase is particularly effective when emphasizing the degree of difficulty or the remoteness of the desired outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "be beyond reach" when something is simply difficult but achievable with effort. The phrase implies a fundamental impossibility, not just a challenge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be beyond reach" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a state of being unattainable or inaccessible. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English. Examples show it describing goals, physical objects, and even emotional states.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be beyond reach" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies something is unattainable or inaccessible. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating its versatility across various domains. When writing, remember that this phrase implies a fundamental impossibility, not merely a challenge. Consider alternatives like ""be unattainable"" or ""be inaccessible"" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be unattainable

Focuses on the impossibility of achieving or obtaining something.

be inaccessible

Highlights the inability to access or reach something, either physically or metaphorically.

be out of reach

A more common and straightforward way of saying something is not within reach.

be unachievable

Emphasizes the impossibility of achieving a particular goal or outcome.

be not feasible

Indicates that something is not practical or possible to do.

be unobtainable

Similar to unattainable, but often used for physical objects or resources.

be not within grasp

Emphasizes the difficulty in seizing or attaining something.

be beyond possibility

Highlights the impossibility of something happening.

be unthinkable

Suggests something is so unlikely or undesirable that it's difficult to imagine.

be a pipe dream

Indicates that something is an unrealistic or fanciful hope.

FAQs

What does it mean for something to "be beyond reach"?

When something is described as "be beyond reach", it means it is unattainable or inaccessible, either literally or figuratively. It suggests that achieving or obtaining it is not possible under current circumstances.

How can I use "be beyond reach" in a sentence?

You can use "be beyond reach" to describe goals, objects, or concepts that are currently impossible to attain or access. For example: "Immortality may "be unattainable", but self-cultivation can enhance one's well-being."

What are some alternatives to "be beyond reach"?

Some alternatives to "be beyond reach" include "be unattainable", "be inaccessible", or "be out of reach". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "be beyond reach" or "be out of reach"?

Both "be beyond reach" and "be out of reach" are correct and have similar meanings. "Be out of reach" is more common and less formal, while "be beyond reach" can add a stronger sense of impossibility or remoteness.