What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ineffable
Example
The beauty of the sunset was ineffable. [ineffable: adjective]
Example
After meditating, she felt an ineffable sense of peace and tranquility. [ineffable: adjective]
incomprehensible
Example
The instructions were incomprehensible, so I had to ask for help. [incomprehensible: adjective]
Example
The lecture on quantum physics was incomprehensible to most of the audience. [incomprehensible: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incomprehensible is more commonly used than ineffable in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and situations. Ineffable is more specialized and often used in religious or spiritual contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between ineffable and incomprehensible?
Both ineffable and incomprehensible are formal words that are typically used in academic or literary contexts. However, incomprehensible is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while ineffable is less common and may sound overly formal or poetic in some situations.
