is irrevocable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is irrevocable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate that something cannot be changed or undone. Example: "Once the contract is signed, it is irrevocable and cannot be altered without mutual consent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Justice Secretary, Liz Truss, has said "My understanding is that it is irrevocable," while the Brexit Secretary, David Davis, said in December 2016: "Is it irrevocable?

BBC

Every brushstroke is irrevocable.

The New Yorker

Murder is irrevocable.

The New York Times - Magazine

Such an election is irrevocable.

Cornell University

Worst of all, it is irrevocable.

The Economist

"Our decision is irrevocable," he said.

The New York Times

"My decision is irrevocable," Ebadi's husband replied.

The New York Times - Books

But the decision, once reached, is irrevocable.

The New Yorker

Once you make this change... it is irrevocable.

Independent

The fact that execution is irrevocable is far more troubling.

The New York Times

He believes nothing in human affairs is irrevocable.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is irrevocable", ensure the context clearly establishes what specific action, decision, or process is being described as unchangeable. Provide adequate context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "is irrevocable" when the situation is merely difficult to change, not truly impossible. Overusing the term weakens its impact and may be inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is irrevocable" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun or pronoun as unchangeable or irreversible. Ludwig examples show it modifying decisions, contracts, and even abstract concepts like socialist systems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

21%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is irrevocable" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something cannot be reversed or undone. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Predominantly used in News & Media, Academia, and Science, the phrase signifies permanence and finality. While alternatives like "cannot be undone" or "is unchangeable" exist, "is irrevocable" maintains a formal tone suitable for various contexts. Remember to use it accurately, avoiding overstatements and ensuring clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be undone

Emphasizes the impossibility of reversing a situation or action.

cannot be reversed

Focuses on the inability to change the direction or outcome of something.

is unchangeable

Highlights the fixed and immutable nature of something.

is irreversible

Stresses the permanent nature of a change or decision.

is set in stone

A more idiomatic expression indicating a decision is firm and unyielding.

is final

Indicates the conclusive and ultimate nature of a decision or outcome.

is binding

Implies a legal or moral obligation that cannot be broken.

is permanent

Emphasizes the long-lasting and enduring nature of something.

is unalterable

Highlights the inability to modify or adjust something.

is not subject to change

A more formal way of saying something cannot be changed.

FAQs

How to use "is irrevocable" in a sentence?

The phrase "is irrevocable" indicates that something cannot be reversed or undone. For instance, "Once the contract is signed, it "is irrevocable"."

What can I say instead of "is irrevocable"?

Alternatives to "is irrevocable" include "cannot be undone", "is unchangeable", or "is final", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "is irrevocable"?

Use "is irrevocable" when referring to a decision, action, or situation that is definitively unchangeable and permanent. For example, "The judge's ruling "is irrevocable" unless appealed within a specific timeframe."

What's the difference between "is irrevocable" and "is irreversible"?

While both phrases imply something cannot be changed, "is irrevocable" often refers to decisions or commitments, while "is irreversible" often refers to processes or changes that cannot be undone. For example, "The damage to the environment "is irreversible", and the contract "is irrevocable"."