formerly inconceivable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formerly inconceivable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that was once unimaginable or impossible but is now accepted or understood. Example: "The rapid advancements in technology have made what was formerly inconceivable now a reality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Formerly inconceivable, especially following the disastrous results for the old Confederacy, rebellion seemed like fever-dreams for a few revolutionary cosplayers and militia gun hoarders.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Karl-Heinz Paqué, an economist who was formerly leader of the Free Democrat delegation in the Saxony-Anhalt State Parliament, said it was inconceivable that the party would be excluded from national politics.

The New York Times

Inconceivable! Inconceivable!

The New York Times

Not inconceivable.

Forbes

That is inconceivable now.

Harvard University

It's absolutely inconceivable.

Independent

It is inconceivable.

The New York Times - Health

"And that is inconceivable".

Independent

"Inconceivable," said the mayor.

The New York Times

It's inconceivable.

The New York Times

But no longer inconceivable.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "formerly inconceivable" to add emphasis when highlighting a significant shift in perception or possibility over time. For example, "What was "formerly inconceivable" is now a cornerstone of modern technology."

Common error

Avoid using "formerly inconceivable" when simply describing something that is currently difficult but always possible. The phrase implies a past state of impossibility or unbelievability that has since changed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formerly inconceivable" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating that the noun's characteristic was at one point impossible or unimaginable. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formerly inconceivable" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe something that was once considered impossible or unimaginable but has since become a reality or possibility. As Ludwig AI indicates, it’s suitable for formal writing and is often found in news and media contexts. While not a very common phrase, its impact lies in emphasizing the shift in perception over time. Related phrases include "previously unimaginable" and "once unthinkable", which offer similar nuances. When using this phrase, ensure that the context accurately reflects a change from impossibility to possibility to avoid misuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

previously unimaginable

Focuses on the lack of prior imagination rather than impossibility.

once unthinkable

Emphasizes the past impossibility of the idea.

formerly unimaginable

Similar to "formerly inconceivable", but uses a different synonym for 'impossible'.

at one time beyond belief

Highlights the aspect of incredulity.

previously considered impossible

Directly states the prior impossibility.

what was once out of the question

Emphasizes that the topic was not up for discussion.

something that used to be impossible

Breaks down the concept into simpler terms.

once deemed unattainable

Highlights the aspect of difficulty and achievement.

what was once considered science fiction

Highlights the fantastical nature before its realization.

used to be beyond the realm of possibility

Emphasizes the boundaries of possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "formerly inconceivable" in a sentence?

You can use "formerly inconceivable" to describe a situation or idea that was once considered impossible or unimaginable but is now a reality or possibility. For instance, "Self-driving cars were "formerly inconceivable", but now they are being tested on public roads."

What are some alternatives to "formerly inconceivable"?

Alternatives include "previously unimaginable", "once unthinkable", or "formerly unimaginable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "formerly inconceivable" a formal or informal phrase?

"Formerly inconceivable" leans towards formal usage, often appearing in news articles, academic papers, and professional reports. More informal contexts might use simpler language like "unthinkable before" or "used to be impossible".

What's the difference between "formerly inconceivable" and "currently improbable"?

"Formerly inconceivable" indicates something that was once deemed impossible but is now possible, whereas "currently improbable" refers to something that is unlikely to happen in the present, but still within the realm of possibility.