What is unobtainable? Pronunciation and usage in English

unobtainable means . Learn how to pronounce and use unobtainable through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of unobtainable

unobtainableadjective

/ˌʌnəbˈteɪnəbl//ˌʌnəbˈteɪnəbl/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "unobtainable." It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown and a few ways to approach it:

1. Syllable by Syllable:

  • un-: (pronounced like "uhn" - a short, neutral vowel sound, like the "u" in "fun")
  • ob-: (pronounced like "ob" – as in “object”)
  • tain-: (pronounced like "tine" - rhymes with "fine")
  • -able: (pronounced like "uh-buhl" – like "able" in "capable")

2. Putting it Together - The Common Pronunciation:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

uhn-ohb-tine-uh-buhl

(Emphasis on the "uhn" and the "uh-buhl")

3. A More Detailed Breakdown & Tips:

  • "Ob" Sound: Make sure the "ob" sounds like "ob" as in "object," not "oh" as in "go".
  • "Tain" Sound: This is often the hardest part. Imagine saying “tine” – it’s a distinct, short “i” sound. Don't let it run together with the “ob”.
  • Linking the Sounds: The goal is to smoothly transition between each syllable. Don’t pause too long between them.

4. Resources for Hearing it:

  • Google Search: Type "pronounce unobtainable" into Google and you'll see audio clips.
  • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/unobtainable/) - This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers.
  • Merriam-Webster Dictionary: (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unobtainable) -Click the audio icon to hear the pronunciation.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you located? (Pronunciation can vary slightly by region – American English vs. British English, for example.)

Usage and examples with the word unobtainable in English

Let's break down how to use the word "unobtainable" effectively in English. It's a powerful word, but it's important to use it precisely.

1. Meaning:

"Unobtainable" means impossible to obtain or get hold of. It describes something that can't be acquired, found, or achieved. It implies a permanent lack, not just a temporary difficulty.

2. How to Use It - Examples:

Here’s a breakdown with examples, categorized for clarity:

  • Referring to Objects/Things:

    • “The ancient artifact was considered unobtainable due to its remote location and dangerous conditions.” (It couldn't be recovered.)
    • “After the flood, the lost documents were deemed unobtainable.” (They were gone forever.)
    • “The rare gemstone was unobtainable from any reputable dealer.” (There was no way to buy it.)

  • Referring to Goals/Dreams:

    • “His dream of becoming a professional athlete seemed increasingly unobtainable as he got older.” (It was unlikely he would achieve it.)
    • “In their current financial situation, a luxury vacation was unobtainable.” (They couldn't afford it.)
    • “With the company facing bankruptcy, a profit was unobtainable.” (It was impossible to make a profit.)

  • Referring to Emotions/Experiences (more figurative):

    • “A sense of peace after the trauma felt completely unobtainable for years.” (It was impossible to regain.)
    • “He found a feeling of belonging in that new city unobtainable.” (He couldn’t find a place where he fit in.)

3. Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Stronger than "difficult": “Unobtainable” is a much stronger word than “difficult” or “hard.” Don’t use it if there’s even a remote possibility of achieving something. It suggests absolute impossibility.

  • Permanent State: It conveys a sense of permanence. It’s not just “hard to find” – it’s never going to be found.

  • Synonyms (use with caution, they have slightly different shades of meaning):

    • Impossible
    • Unreachable
    • Irretrievable (especially for lost items)
    • Inaccessible

  • Phrases: You might see it used in phrases:

    • “It’s unobtainable at this time.” (Meaning it’s not available now, and likely won’t be soon.)
    • “The truth was unobtainable under his questioning.” (He couldn’t get him to admit anything.)

4. Example Sentences Combining the Above:

  • “After years of searching, the legendary treasure remained unobtainable, lost to the sands of time.”
  • “Following the devastating wildfire, the photographs of the town’s original buildings were declared unobtainable.”
  • “For the bereaved family, a truly joyful reunion with their loved one felt tragically unobtainable.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What context are you thinking of using "unobtainable" in? (e.g., a story, a formal essay, a casual conversation?)
  • Is there a specific object, feeling, or situation you're trying to describe?

Comment ()