that is unattainable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is unattainable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that cannot be achieved or reached, often in a context discussing goals, dreams, or aspirations. Example: "Many people strive for perfection, but it is important to recognize that such a standard is often that is unattainable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

"We have to give them an experience that is unattainable in an urban setting.

The New York Times - Food

Fifth, the models allow a degree of control over service levels that is unattainable with existing models.

Cornell University

During New York Fashion Week in February, a number of models with disabilities appeared on the runways, leading some to conclude that the industry is becoming more inclusive — yet the emphasis on an appearance that is unattainable for most remains.

The New Yorker

For instance, a recent study by Mr Latham and others found that managers who believe they have been set a goal that is unattainable are more likely to abuse their subordinates.

The Economist

Equipped with a novel event-triggered communication scheme, the SDN-based architecture enables distributed power sharing among microgrids in both the transient period and the steady state, a capability that is unattainable using existing technologies.

Applied Energy

During New York Fashion Week in February, a number of models with disabilities appeared on the runways, leading some to conclude that the industry is becoming more inclusive yet the emphasis on an appearance that is unattainable for most remains.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It is yielding findings that are unattainable for homogeneous populations.

Nature

The pieces evoke a sense of chaos and futility that was unattainable in a single frame.

The New Yorker

Spin extrusion can be applied first and foremost at dimensions that are unattainable with other techniques.

CIRP Annals

It was recognised that the old possessed qualities that were unattainable for the young.

The Guardian

This article introduces the use of three-dimensionally (3D) printed molds for rapid fabrication of complex and arbitrary microchannel geometries that are unattainable through existing soft lithography techniques.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that is unattainable" to describe goals, standards, or expectations that are unrealistic or impossible to meet. It helps set realistic expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "that is unattainable" when you simply mean something is challenging or requires significant effort. Reserve it for situations where success is genuinely impossible, not just improbable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is unattainable" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes a quality or state of being impossible to reach or achieve. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use to describe goals, standards, and expectations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is unattainable" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something impossible to achieve. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its presence in diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While it is often interchanged with similar phrases like "that is unachievable", it's crucial to use it appropriately, avoiding overstatement when the intended meaning is merely "difficult". Recognizing its communicative purpose—expressing impossibility or tempering expectations—enhances clarity in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is unachievable

Replaces 'unattainable' with 'unachievable', maintaining a direct synonym.

that is simply impossible

Emphasizes the impossibility with the word 'simply'.

that is beyond reach

Uses a metaphor to convey the idea of being impossible to obtain.

that is not feasible

Focuses on the practicality and possibility of achieving something.

that cannot be realized

Highlights the inability to bring something into reality.

that is out of the question

Indicates that something is not allowed or possible.

that is doomed to fail

Focuses on the inevitable failure of something.

that is a pipe dream

Implies that something is an unrealistic or fanciful hope.

that is a lost cause

Suggests that further effort is pointless because failure is inevitable.

that is a fool's errand

Describes an activity that is pointless and without hope of success.

FAQs

How to use "that is unattainable" in a sentence?

Use "that is unattainable" to describe goals or expectations that cannot be reached, for example, "Striving for perfection is admirable, but setting standards "that is unattainable" can lead to frustration."

What can I say instead of "that is unattainable"?

You can use alternatives such as "that is unachievable", "that is beyond reach", or "that is not feasible" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "that is unattainable" or "that is unachievable"?

Both "that is unattainable" and "that is unachievable" are correct and can be used interchangeably in many contexts. The choice often comes down to personal preference.

When should I use "that is unattainable" instead of "difficult"?

Use "that is unattainable" when something is impossible to achieve, regardless of effort. Use "difficult" when something requires a lot of effort or skill, but is still possible to achieve.