What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unreturning
Example
The passing of a loved one is an unreturning event. [unreturning: adjective]
Example
Once the decision is made, it is unreturning. [unreturning: adjective]
irretrievable
Example
The data was irretrievable after the hard drive crashed. [irretrievable: adjective]
Example
The company suffered an irretrievable loss due to the fire. [irretrievable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irretrievable is more commonly used than unreturning in everyday language. Irretrievable is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unreturning is less common and is often used in more poetic or literary contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unreturning and irretrievable?
Both unreturning and irretrievable are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as legal or technical writing.