Imposible

Imposible is a Spanish adjective meaning not able to be done, achieved, or attained. It describes actions, conditions, events, or propositions that are beyond possibility and can be used in literal or figurative contexts. For instance, “Es imposible terminarlo hoy” expresses a practical impossibility, while “un plan imposible” characterizes an overly idealized goal.

Etymology: The word derives from Latin impossibilis, formed from the negating prefix in- plus possibilis, meaning “able to be done.” Possibilis itself comes from a root related to the idea of being able. The term entered Spanish via Late Latin and medieval usage and has cognates in many Romance languages (French impossible, Italian impossibile, Portuguese impossível).

Grammar and usage: Imposible is invariable for gender in Spanish, with plural imposibles. It is commonly used with phrases such as “de hacer” or “de cumplir” to indicate impossibility, as in “una tarea imposible de realizar” or “la idea es imposible de cumplir.” Related expressions include “lo imposible” (the impossible) and “hacer algo imposible” (to do something impossible).

Translations and related terms: In English the direct equivalent is impossible. The noun form in Spanish is imposibilidad, referring to the state or quality of being impossible. Cognates exist in other languages: impossible (English), impossible (French), impossibile (Italian), impossível (Portuguese).

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