it is impossible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is impossible" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to express that something cannot be done or achieved. Example: "It is impossible for me to finish this project by myself. I will need some help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sometimes, it is impossible.

The New York Times

It is impossible.

The New York Times

Often it is impossible.

The New York Times

Because it is impossible.

The New Yorker

It is impossible to predict.

The Economist

"It is impossible to forget".

The New York Times

It is impossible to know.

The New York Times

It is impossible to relax".

Independent

I think it is impossible.

Independent

It is impossible," he said.

Independent

It is impossible not to.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is impossible" to clearly and directly state that something cannot be done or achieved, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is impossible" when describing tasks that are merely challenging or difficult. Reserve this phrase for situations where there is a fundamental barrier to achievement, not just a high degree of difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is impossible" functions as a declarative statement, expressing that something is not capable of occurring or being achieved. Ludwig examples confirm its role in stating absolute limitations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is impossible" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to express that something cannot be done or achieved. Ludwig AI confirms this. With a neutral register, it's suitable for various contexts, although predominantly found in News & Media. To enhance your writing, ensure its usage accurately reflects genuine impossibility rather than mere difficulty. Alternatives like "it is unachievable" or "it cannot be done" can provide nuanced meaning. Remember, context is key to effective communication. The phrase is found authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, making it reliable for various communicative purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it cannot be done

Focuses on the action being unachievable.

it is unachievable

Highlights the goal as unattainable.

it is not feasible

Emphasizes the impracticality of the situation.

it is out of the question

Indicates the idea is not worth considering.

it is beyond possibility

Stresses the lack of chance for success.

it is simply not possible

Adds emphasis to the impossibility.

it is a lost cause

Suggests further effort is futile.

it is hopeless

Conveys a sense of despair about the situation.

it is a pipe dream

Indicates the idea is unrealistic and fanciful.

there is no way

Directly states the absence of a method or solution.

FAQs

How can I use "it is impossible" in a sentence?

Use "it is impossible" to express that something cannot be achieved or done. For example, "It is impossible to predict the future with certainty".

What are some alternatives to saying "it is impossible"?

You can use alternatives like "it is unachievable", "it is not feasible", or "it cannot be done" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it's impossible"?

Yes, "it's impossible" is a contraction of "it is impossible" and is perfectly acceptable in informal contexts.

What is the difference between "it is impossible" and "it seems impossible"?

"It is impossible" states a definite impossibility, while "it seems impossible" suggests that something appears impossible but might not be. The latter leaves room for doubt or potential solutions.