pragmatically impossible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pragmatically impossible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or action that cannot be realistically achieved, even if it is theoretically possible. Example: "While it may be theoretically feasible to build a bridge to the moon, it is pragmatically impossible given our current technology and resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is both morally unacceptable and pragmatically ineffective.

Huffington Post

Reminded that many people thought it was impossible to die for a belief held pragmatically, he responded, "I hope they're wrong, but I can't prove it".

The Guardian

I view abortion pragmatically.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Verdict Pragmatically hard Brexit.

The Guardian

I'm a catch, pragmatically speaking.

The New Yorker

Pragmatically, they believed it would be ineffective.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Shared sacrifice" is his pragmatically coy mantra.

The New York Times

Pragmatically, there's good reason for evasion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Pragmatically and widely is the answer.

The Economist

He also likes his medium pragmatically.

The New York Times - Science

And no one seemed to be studying the situation pragmatically.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pragmatically impossible" when you want to emphasize that something, while theoretically possible, is not feasible due to practical constraints or limitations.

Common error

Avoid using "pragmatically impossible" when something is absolutely impossible, as the phrase implies a theoretical possibility, however remote. Instead, reserve it for situations where practical considerations make success unattainable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pragmatically impossible" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate that something is not realistically feasible or achievable, even if theoretically possible. It serves to temper expectations and provide a practical assessment.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pragmatically impossible" describes scenarios that are theoretically possible yet practically unachievable due to real-world constraints. While grammatically correct, its usage is infrequent. Alternatives include "practically unachievable" and "realistically impossible". When employing this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a situation with a theoretical chance of success hampered by practical obstacles, and does not misrepresent scenarios that are inherently impossible. As Ludwig has confirmed, the phrase is usable in written English, though its rarity suggests careful consideration of context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Practically unachievable

Emphasizes the lack of practical means to achieve something.

Realistically impossible

Focuses on the impossibility based on a realistic assessment of the situation.

Virtually impossible

Highlights the near impossibility of something.

Effectively impossible

Implies that although theoretically possible, the outcome is unlikely.

Infeasibly impractical

Combines the concepts of infeasibility and impracticality for emphasis.

Not practically viable

Highlights the lack of practical viability.

Unworkable in practice

Focuses on the inability to implement something successfully.

Unrealistic to implement

Emphasizes the unrealistic nature of implementation.

Beyond the realm of possibility

Suggests that something is not within what can be achieved.

Unattainable in reality

Emphasizes the lack of attainability in real-world conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "pragmatically impossible" in a sentence?

You can use "pragmatically impossible" to describe plans or ideas that are unrealistic in practice. For example, "Building a bridge to Mars is theoretically possible but "pragmatically impossible" with current technology".

What can I say instead of "pragmatically impossible"?

You can use alternatives like "practically unachievable", "realistically impossible", or "virtually impossible" depending on the context.

Is "pragmatically impossible" the same as "impossible"?

"Pragmatically impossible" implies that something is theoretically possible but cannot be done in practice due to constraints, while "impossible" suggests it cannot be done under any circumstances.

When is it appropriate to use "pragmatically impossible"?

It's suitable when you want to acknowledge a theoretical possibility but emphasize that practical factors make it unachievable. For example, "Achieving world peace is often viewed as "pragmatically impossible" due to persistent conflicts and political divisions".