it is merely impossible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is merely impossible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that something is not just difficult, but completely unfeasible or unattainable. Example: "Given the current circumstances, it is merely impossible to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

However, it is merely impossible for a small group of researchers to collect images of every construction materials.

Visualization in Engineering

Whereas it is inconceivable that God is not good, it is merely impossible that everything is not good.

SEP

CML has a limited number of construction material classes because it is merely impossible for an individual or a group of researchers to collect all possible variations of construction materials.

Visualization in Engineering

Blinding the care providers is still not applied in this trial, since it is merely impossible to blind acupuncturists.

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It is just impossible".

The New York Times

It is simply impossible.

WikiHow

If God does not exist, then it is either because the idea of God is impossible or because it is merely possible, i.e., contingent.

SEP

In some jurisdictions, like Scotland, it is essentially impossible to own a gun; in others, like Canada, it is merely very, very difficult.

The New Yorker

It is merely foolish.

The New York Times

It is merely expressive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is merely being human.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is merely impossible" to convey that something is not only difficult but fundamentally unattainable under the current circumstances. It adds a layer of emphasis beyond simple impossibility.

Common error

While "merely" adds emphasis, avoid overusing it, especially in formal writing. Too many instances of "merely" can make your writing sound repetitive or condescending. Consider stronger, more direct synonyms when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is merely impossible" functions as a statement of impossibility, emphasizing that a certain outcome or action is not just difficult but fundamentally unattainable. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is merely impossible" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a firm sense of infeasibility. According to Ludwig AI, the expression is valid. Though relatively rare, it appears in both news and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the emphasis on impossibility is appropriate for the situation. Consider alternatives like "it is simply impossible" or "it is absolutely impossible" if you wish to adjust the level of intensity. Avoid overuse of "merely" to maintain clear and concise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is simply impossible

Replaces "merely" with "simply" for a more direct emphasis on impossibility.

it is just impossible

Substitutes "merely" with "just", offering a more casual tone while retaining the core meaning.

it is absolutely impossible

Replaces "merely" with "absolutely" to intensify the feeling of impossibility.

it is completely impossible

Uses "completely" instead of "merely" to highlight the totality of the impossibility.

it is entirely impossible

Employs "entirely" in place of "merely", stressing the comprehensive nature of the impossibility.

it is virtually impossible

Weakens the statement slightly by suggesting it's close to impossible, but not quite.

it is practically impossible

Similar to "virtually impossible", indicating a very high degree of difficulty.

it is out of the question

Expresses impossibility by stating that something is not to be considered or allowed.

it cannot be done

A simple and direct way of saying that something is impossible.

it is unachievable

Focuses on the lack of ability to achieve a particular goal or outcome.

FAQs

What does "it is merely impossible" mean?

The phrase "it is merely impossible" signifies that something is not only difficult, but essentially cannot be done or achieved under the existing conditions. It implies a fundamental barrier preventing success.

When should I use "it is merely impossible" instead of "it is impossible"?

Use "it is merely impossible" when you want to emphasize that the impossibility isn't due to a lack of effort or resources, but rather due to inherent constraints or limitations. It adds a layer of definitiveness.

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

You can use alternatives like "it is simply impossible", "it is absolutely impossible", or "it is completely impossible" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "it is merely impossible" formal or informal?

The phrase "it is merely impossible" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more frequently found in written communication than in casual conversation. It maintains a neutral tone and can be used in a variety of settings.