is unattainable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is unattainable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that cannot be achieved or reached, often in contexts discussing goals, dreams, or standards. Example: "For many, the idea of perfection is unattainable, leading to feelings of inadequacy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is unattainable, of course.

The Economist

It is too intimidating; it is unattainable.

The Guardian - Sport

That means that perfect knowledge is unattainable.

The Guardian - Business

The furniture produced by BDDW is unattainable for many.

The New York Times

But none of the evidence suggests the target is unattainable.

The Guardian

Villegas settled for a flawless physique because a flawless golf game is unattainable.

The New York Times - Sports

We recognize that a comprehensive peace agreement is unattainable right now.

The New York Times

It would conclusively establish in the eyes of most Israelis that for now, peace is unattainable.

The New York Times

Some of our critics insist that objectivity is unattainable — or boring ­— so why try?

The New York Times - Magazine

In these ways he creates a fantasy world as tantalizing as it is unattainable.

The New York Times - Books

3) Cancer prevention and treatment is unattainable because of inadequate human and physical resources – untrue.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is unattainable", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the subject unattainable. Providing specific reasons strengthens your argument and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "is unattainable" as a hyperbolic statement without supporting evidence. Always provide context or explanation to justify why something is considered unattainable, otherwise, it may weaken your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is unattainable" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its state of being beyond reach or impossible to achieve. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is unattainable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying that something cannot be achieved or reached. Ludwig AI's analysis, along with numerous examples from reputable sources, confirms its consistent use across various contexts including news, science, and formal business. The phrase is generally considered neutral in register and serves the communicative purpose of expressing impossibility, often tempering expectations or providing realistic assessments. While versatile, it's important to provide context to justify the claim that something "is unattainable", thereby reinforcing the statement's credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unachievable

Synonym that emphasizes the lack of possibility for achievement.

cannot be achieved

Directly states the impossibility of achieving a specific goal or outcome.

is out of reach

Emphasizes the inability to physically or metaphorically reach a goal.

is beyond possibility

Expresses that something exceeds the realm of what is possible.

is beyond reach

Highlights that something is not achievable within current capabilities or circumstances.

is not feasible

Indicates that something is not practical or realistic to accomplish.

is simply not possible

Underscores the fundamental impossibility of a situation.

is a pipe dream

Suggests that something is an unrealistic and fanciful aspiration.

is wishful thinking

Implies that something is based on desires rather than reality.

is a lost cause

Indicates that further effort is pointless due to the impossibility of success.

FAQs

How can I use "is unattainable" in a sentence?

You can use "is unattainable" to describe goals, standards, or objects that cannot be reached or achieved. For example, "For many, the idea of perfection "is unattainable"."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "is unattainable"?

Alternatives include "is out of reach", "cannot be achieved", or "is unachievable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "is unattainable" or "is impossible"?

Both phrases are similar, but "is unattainable" often implies that something is beyond reach due to practical limitations or current circumstances, while "is impossible" suggests a more fundamental barrier. The best choice depends on the context.

In what contexts is the phrase "is unattainable" most appropriate?

The phrase "is unattainable" is often used in discussions about goals, standards, or ideals that are very difficult or impossible to achieve. It's commonly found in articles related to personal development, business strategy, and philosophical discussions about the nature of reality.