Definitions
- Describing a material or surface that does not allow liquids or gases to pass through. - Referring to a barrier that prevents the passage of water, air, or other substances. - Talking about a substance or object that is resistant to penetration or absorption.
- Describing a material or surface that is not affected by water, air, or other substances. - Referring to a person who is not influenced or affected by something. - Talking about a situation or circumstance that cannot be penetrated or breached.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe resistance to penetration or absorption.
- 2Both words can be used to describe materials or surfaces.
- 3Both words can be used figuratively to describe people or situations.
- 4Both words have Latin roots.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Impermeable is typically used to describe physical barriers or materials, while impervious can also be used to describe mental or emotional states.
- 2Meaning: Impermeable specifically refers to the inability of liquids or gases to pass through, while impervious can refer to a broader range of substances or influences.
- 3Connotation: Impermeable has a neutral connotation, while impervious can have a negative connotation when used to describe people who are unresponsive or insensitive.
- 4Usage in context: Impermeable is often used in scientific or technical contexts, while impervious is more commonly used in everyday language.
Remember this!
Impermeable and impervious are synonyms that describe resistance to penetration or absorption. However, impermeable specifically refers to physical barriers or materials that do not allow liquids or gases to pass through, while impervious can also refer to mental or emotional states. Impermeable is often used in scientific or technical contexts, while impervious is more commonly used in everyday language.
