Definitions
- Describing a challenge or obstacle that is impossible to overcome. - Referring to a problem or difficulty that seems too great to solve. - Talking about a barrier or hurdle that cannot be surpassed or conquered.
- Referring to a road, path, or route that is blocked or obstructed and cannot be traveled. - Describing a physical barrier that cannot be crossed or overcome. - Talking about a situation or condition that prevents progress or advancement.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a situation where progress or movement is hindered.
- 2Both words suggest a sense of difficulty or challenge.
- 3Both words imply that there is an obstacle that cannot be overcome.
What is the difference?
- 1Type of obstacle: Insurmountable refers to a challenge or problem that cannot be overcome, while impassable refers to a physical barrier that cannot be crossed.
- 2Degree of difficulty: Insurmountable suggests a higher degree of difficulty than impassable.
- 3Scope of application: Insurmountable can be applied to both physical and non-physical obstacles, while impassable is mainly used for physical barriers.
- 4Connotation: Insurmountable has a more negative connotation than impassable, which can sometimes be neutral or even positive depending on the context.
- 5Usage: Insurmountable is more commonly used in figurative language, while impassable is more commonly used in literal language.
Remember this!
Insurmountable and impassable are synonyms that describe situations where progress or movement is hindered by an obstacle. However, the difference between them lies in the type of obstacle and the degree of difficulty. Insurmountable refers to a challenge or problem that cannot be overcome, while impassable refers to a physical barrier that cannot be crossed. Insurmountable suggests a higher degree of difficulty than impassable and has a more negative connotation.
