What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unknowable
Example
The nature of the universe is unknowable to us. [unknowable: adjective]
Example
The meaning of life may be unknowable. [unknowable: noun]
incomprehensible
Example
The instructions were incomprehensible to me. [incomprehensible: adjective]
Example
The foreign language was incomprehensible to the tourists. [incomprehensible: adjective]
Example
The reasons for the company's failure were incomprehensible to the employees. [incomprehensible: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incomprehensible is more commonly used than unknowable in everyday language. Incomprehensible is a more practical and versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while unknowable is less common and has a more mystical or spiritual connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unknowable and incomprehensible?
Both unknowable and incomprehensible are formal words that are typically used in academic or intellectual contexts. However, incomprehensible is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while unknowable is more limited in its usage.