is beyond reach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is beyond reach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that cannot be attained, accessed, or achieved. Example: "The solution to the problem seems to be beyond reach, leaving us feeling frustrated and helpless."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Some Princeton students have griped that Ms. Morrison is beyond reach.

The New York Times

His misery, shame, anger and isolation seem complete: he is beyond reach.

The Guardian

Even maintaining the economic status quo, a very low bar, is beyond reach.

The New York Times

and even after that there still remains plenty of desirable programming, especially sports, that is beyond reach.

The New Yorker

Bresnan's flick to fine leg brings another one, but there's a sense now that this target is beyond reach.

The Guardian - Sport

For poorer parents, especially in rural Uganda, who live on about $1 a day, the cost is beyond reach.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

By then prizes may be beyond reach.

Independent

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

Although there are some who may be beyond reach.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when choosing between "is beyond reach" and similar phrases like "unattainable" or "out of reach". "Is beyond reach" often implies a more significant or insurmountable barrier.

Common error

While "is beyond reach" can be used metaphorically, avoid stretching the metaphor too far. Overly elaborate or abstract language can obscure the meaning and weaken your argument. Keep the comparison clear and relevant to the core message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is beyond reach" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun or concept as unattainable or impossible to achieve. It modifies the subject by indicating a state of inaccessibility. As shown by Ludwig AI, its primary role is to express impossibility or infeasibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

16%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is beyond reach" is a versatile expression used to describe something unattainable or impossible, as validated by Ludwig. It functions as a predicate adjective, conveying limitations or infeasibility. With a neutral register, it appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates its grammatical correctness and wide applicability, while related phrases like "is unattainable" and "is out of reach" offer similar but nuanced alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unattainable

Direct synonym focusing on the impossibility of achieving something.

is out of reach

Similar meaning, but slightly more informal and emphasizes a lack of access.

is unachievable

Highlights the inability to achieve a particular goal or outcome.

is impossible to attain

More formal and emphasizes the impossibility of reaching a certain level or status.

cannot be achieved

Passive voice construction focusing on the lack of possibility.

lies beyond our grasp

More metaphorical, suggesting something is just out of reach despite effort.

is not within the realm of possibility

Formal and emphatic, highlighting the complete impossibility.

is a pipe dream

Informal idiom suggesting an unrealistic or fanciful aspiration.

is a lost cause

Implies futility and that effort is no longer worthwhile.

is wishful thinking

Suggests the idea is based on desires rather than reality.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is beyond reach"?

When something "is beyond reach", it means it is impossible to attain, achieve, or access. It suggests that the goal or desired outcome is not feasible given current circumstances or limitations.

What can I say instead of "is beyond reach"?

You can use alternatives like "is unattainable", "is out of reach", or "is unachievable" depending on the context.

Is "is beyond reach" formal or informal?

"Is beyond reach" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "is impossible to attain" might be preferred in certain academic or professional settings.

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

You can use "is beyond reach" to describe goals, solutions, or even people. For example: "A complete resolution to the conflict seems to be beyond reach at this time" or "Some Princeton students have griped that Ms Morrison is beyond reach".