Meaning & Definition of word "Unobtainable"

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    Unobtainable

    /ˌʌnəbˈteɪnəbl/

    adjective:

    • 1. Not able to be obtained; impossible to acquire.
      • Example: The rare artifact was deemed unobtainable for any museum due to its high private ownership.
    • 2. Something that is out of reach or cannot be attained.
      • Example: Her dream of traveling to Mars seemed unobtainable with current technology.
    • 3. Being unattainable, often due to limitations or circumstances.
      • Example: In this economic climate, job security is an unobtainable goal for many recent graduates.

    Etymology

    From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'obtainable' from 'obtain'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    Like finding a needle in a haystack:

    Referring to something that is extremely difficult to find or obtain.

    A pipe dream:

    An unrealistic hope or fantasy that is unattainable.

    Related Words

    attainable:

    Able to be achieved or reached.

    accessible:

    Able to be reached or entered.

    achievable:

    Able to be brought about or attained.

    Slang Meanings of unobtainable

    Meaning: Living legend

    Example Sentence: He's a living legend – actually, unobtainable, just like a rare Pokémon!

    Meaning: High maintenance

    Example Sentence: When it comes to relationships, she's unobtainable, always acting so high maintenance.