it is unthinkable

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is unthinkable" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express a feeling that something is too extreme, impossible, or unimaginable. For example: "It is unthinkable that we would ever have to go to war with our closest ally."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is unthinkable there would be no deal.

The Guardian

It is unthinkable, as is a Los Angeles without its Museum of Contemporary Art.

The New York Times - Arts

It is unthinkable.

The New York Times

While it is unthinkable that the Pres.

The New Yorker

In fact we find that it is unthinkable.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It is unthinkable that any more should be required.

Harvard University

"It is unthinkable that Kun could leave Atletico Madrid".

Independent

It is unthinkable that he will not write again.

The Guardian - Sport

I think it is unthinkable in the modern climate.

The Guardian - Sport

That it is unthinkable that they should feel in any way unwelcome.

The New York Times - Sports

"They erected a strange thing next to his mausoleum… it is unthinkable," he complained.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is unthinkable" to express strong disbelief or to reject an idea as completely unacceptable. It conveys a sense of impossibility or moral objection, adding emphasis to your statement.

Common error

While effective, relying excessively on "it is unthinkable" can make writing seem dramatic. Balance its usage with more neutral alternatives to maintain credibility, especially in formal reports.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is unthinkable" functions as an expressive device, indicating a strong feeling of disbelief or impossibility. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its effectiveness in conveying a firm stance or rejection of an idea.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is unthinkable" serves as a potent phrase to express strong disbelief, impossibility, or moral objection. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and offers abundant examples of its usage across diverse contexts, especially in news and media. While highly effective, consider the potential for overuse and choose it judiciously to maintain the desired impact. Be mindful of your audience and aim for a balance between impact and credibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's simply not an option

Emphasizes the lack of feasibility or acceptability of something; focuses on practicality and choice.

that's out of the question

Indicates a firm refusal or rejection of an idea or proposal; stronger emphasis on denial.

it's beyond consideration

Suggests something is so unlikely or inappropriate that it should not even be considered.

it defies imagination

Highlights the extreme nature of something, making it difficult to envision or comprehend.

it's just not feasible

Focuses on the impracticality or impossibility of achieving something due to constraints or limitations.

that's completely unacceptable

Emphasizes the lack of acceptability of something, often due to moral or ethical reasons.

it's practically impossible

Indicates a very low probability of something occurring, bordering on impossibility.

it's far-fetched to believe

Highlights the implausibility or unlikelihood of a belief or assumption.

it strains credulity

Suggests something is so improbable that it challenges one's willingness to believe it.

it beggars belief

Emphasizes the extraordinary or astonishing nature of something, making it hard to believe.

FAQs

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

Use "it is unthinkable" to express strong disbelief, impossibility, or moral objection to something. For example, "It is unthinkable that we would abandon our allies in their time of need."

What phrases are similar to "it is unthinkable"?

Alternatives to "it is unthinkable" include phrases like "it is inconceivable", "it is unimaginable", or "it is out of the question", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it is unthinkable" a formal or informal expression?

While "it is unthinkable" is understood in both formal and informal contexts, its strong and emphatic nature makes it more impactful in certain settings. Consider the tone and audience before using it, opting for more neutral alternatives in highly formal communications.

When should I avoid using "it is unthinkable"?

Avoid "it is unthinkable" when a milder expression of disbelief or improbability is sufficient. Overusing it can weaken its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic or exaggerated. Use alternative phrases such as "it is unlikely" or "it is improbable" in less serious contexts.