be impossible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be impossible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something cannot happen or be achieved. Example: "Without proper funding, it will be impossible to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"They can be impossible.

The New York Times

It would be impossible.

The Economist

"But it can be impossible.

The New York Times

It would basically be impossible".

The New York Times

Would the traffic be impossible?

The New York Times

This should not be impossible.

The Economist

"Actually it would be impossible".

The New York Times

But that would be impossible.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"But this is impossible.

The New York Times

Watertight protection is impossible.

The Economist

Basically, it's impossible.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Replace "be impossible" with a more descriptive alternative like "unachievable" or "infeasible" to provide additional nuance in your writing, if appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "be impossible" when the situation is merely highly improbable or difficult. Reserve it for scenarios where success is genuinely unattainable, to prevent hyperbole.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be impossible" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a subject as not being possible. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. Examples in Ludwig highlight its application in describing unattainable goals or unfeasible situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be impossible" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase employed to express that something is unattainable. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase appears in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia and Science. When writing, it's important to use it accurately, reserving it for situations that are genuinely unattainable to avoid hyperbole. Related phrases like "be unachievable" or "be infeasible" can provide nuanced alternatives. Remember to be specific about the factors that render a situation impossible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be unachievable

Focuses on the lack of possibility of reaching a goal or outcome.

be unattainable

Highlights the inability to obtain or acquire something.

be infeasible

Emphasizes the impracticality or unsuitability of a plan or action.

be impracticable

Similar to 'infeasible', but often implies difficulties in implementation.

be out of the question

Indicates that something is not permissible or acceptable.

cannot be done

A straightforward way of stating that something is not possible.

be beyond reach

Highlights the idea that something is too difficult or distant to attain.

be unworkable

Focuses on the fact that a plan or system is not capable of functioning effectively.

be hopeless

Suggests that there is no chance of success or improvement.

stand no chance

Emphasizes the lack of any possibility of succeeding.

FAQs

How can I use "be impossible" in a sentence?

The phrase "be impossible" is used to indicate that something cannot happen or be achieved. For example: "It will "be impossible" to finish the project without additional resources."

What can I say instead of "be impossible"?

You can use alternatives such as "be unachievable", "be unattainable", or "be infeasible" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "be impossible"?

Use "be impossible" when referring to situations that are genuinely unattainable or cannot occur under any circumstances. Avoid using it for situations that are merely difficult or improbable.

What's the difference between "be impossible" and "be unlikely"?

"Be impossible" indicates that something cannot happen, while "be unlikely" suggests that something probably will not happen but still has a chance. For example: "It will "be impossible" to travel to Mars tomorrow", vs "It is "be unlikely" that it will rain tomorrow".