is virtually unattainable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is virtually unattainable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is almost impossible to achieve or obtain, often in a context of goals or aspirations. Example: "While many strive for perfection, it often feels like it is virtually unattainable in reality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The threshold is virtually unattainable, say Mr. Nader and another third-party contender, Patrick J. Buchanan, without the national exposure of a televised debate.

The New York Times

3. Hyundai Accent 4. Ford Mustang Boss 302 5. Volkswagen Passat TDI 6. Kia Optima 7. Audi A7 8. Range Rover Evoque 9. Cadillac CTS-V Wagon 10. Dodge Durango 1. BMW 1 SERIES M ($47,010) Granted, this low production high-performance edition of the small BMW is virtually unattainable.

The New York Times

As we all know on mobile, this level of freedom in development is virtually unattainable, as cycles for development, user testing, and feedback loops are considerably longer, and therefore more expensive.

TechCrunch

Control of all these variables in rapidly developing embryos is virtually unattainable in vivo.

BMC Genomics

Note: A somewhat similar hypothesis has been advanced by Shevchenko et al. [ 20] (this paper is virtually unattainable in the "West". However, we feel that it must be mentioned since it is an excellent and extensive review of the related ideas being pursued in slavic countries).

Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Since reasoning which went beyond the probable was virtually unattainable in many moral contexts, an agent satisfied her or his epistemic duties by relying on sound probable reasoning, thus acquiring a subjective certainty of having done all that could be expected of an agent to avoid sin (Gardeil 1911; Schüssler 2003, 50).

SEP

However, private investments are virtually unattainable for these ventures due to a lack of good process and metrics, making it impossible to construct a viable business case.

Huffington Post

The number nine is nearly unattainable.

Vice

That is virtually gospel.

The New York Times

This is virtually impossible.

The Economist

Screening is virtually nonexistent.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is virtually unattainable", ensure that you aren't overstating the impossibility. The 'virtually' implies it is exceedingly difficult, but not absolutely impossible. Reserve 'absolutely unattainable' for situations with no possible recourse.

Common error

Avoid using "is virtually unattainable" when a goal is simply difficult but achievable with reasonable effort. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a challenge that presents near-insurmountable obstacles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is virtually unattainable" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a subject as being almost impossible to achieve or obtain. This description implies a high degree of difficulty or improbability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is virtually unattainable" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe something that is exceedingly difficult to achieve, though not strictly impossible. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides various examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Economist. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it's crucial to avoid overstating impossibility. Alternatives like "is practically impossible" or "is almost unachievable" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is practically impossible

Replaces "virtually unattainable" with "practically impossible", emphasizing the near impossibility.

is almost unachievable

Substitutes "virtually unattainable" with "almost unachievable", highlighting the extreme difficulty.

is effectively out of reach

Replaces "virtually unattainable" with a more metaphorical expression indicating something is beyond reach.

is realistically unfeasible

Emphasizes the unfeasibility of achieving something in a realistic context.

borders on impossible

Indicates that something is close to being impossible, but not quite.

is just beyond reach

Suggests that success is tantalizingly close but still unattainable.

might as well be impossible

Uses a more colloquial tone to express near impossibility.

is a pipe dream

Indicates that something is an unrealistic hope or wish.

is pie in the sky

Similar to 'pipe dream', denoting something unrealistic and impractical.

is like chasing rainbows

Employs a metaphor to describe the futility of pursuing something.

FAQs

What does "is virtually unattainable" mean?

The phrase "is virtually unattainable" describes something that is nearly impossible to achieve or obtain. The word "virtually" suggests that while not technically impossible, the likelihood of success is extremely low.

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

You can use "is virtually unattainable" to describe goals, standards, or achievements that are incredibly difficult to reach. For example: "Achieving a zero-carbon footprint "is virtually unattainable" without significant technological advancements."

Which is correct, "is virtually unattainable" or "is actually unattainable"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they convey different meanings. "Is virtually unattainable" means almost impossible, while "is actually unattainable" means completely impossible. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the degree of impossibility.

What are some alternatives to "is virtually unattainable"?

Some alternatives to "is virtually unattainable" include "is practically impossible", "is almost unachievable", or "is effectively out of reach". The best choice depends on the specific context.