B2nounlanguagephilosophy
US/ɪmˌpɑː.səˈbɪl.ə.ti/
UK/ɪmˌpɒs.əˈbɪl.ə.ti/
the fact that something cannot happen or cannot be done; something that is impossible
In context
The impossibility of finishing the work by Friday was obvious to everyone.
She spoke about the impossibility of being in two places at once.
For many families, buying a house is a near impossibility.
Words that go with impossibility
adjective + noun
- virtual impossibilityFinding parking here is a virtual impossibility.
- near impossibilityGetting a ticket became a near impossibility.
- sheer impossibilityThe sheer impossibility of the task discouraged them.
- practical impossibilityChecking every file is a practical impossibility.
noun + preposition
- impossibility ofThe impossibility of escape made him panic.
verb + noun
- face the impossibilityThey had to face the impossibility of winning.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
It is an impossibility to do this.Correct: It is impossible to do this.