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insoluble
Insoluble (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:

What does insoluble mean?
A profound level of complexity or intractability that defies any attempt at resolution or comprehension.
"Some conflicts are insoluble and can only be managed, not resolved."
Detailed Meaning of Insoluble
This term implies that the problem is so deeply intricate, ambiguous, or incompatible with the available knowledge, resources, or methods that finding a viable solution or a clear explanation appears impossible. In essence, "insoluble" emphasizes the sheer difficulty or infeasibility of unraveling the underlying complexities or uncertainties that surround the issue, leaving it unresolved and often shrouded in persistent ambiguity or mystery. It conveys a sense of ultimate, unsolvable challenge, where even the most diligent efforts fail to yield a satisfactory answer or resolution.
Example Sentences for Insoluble
1. The problem was insoluble, even after hours of brainstorming.
2. The mystery of the universe's origins remains insoluble to this day.
3. The financial crisis presented an insoluble problem for many companies.
4. Some math equations are insoluble and have yet to be solved.
5. The issue of global poverty remains insoluble despite years of effort.
6. The insoluble substance refused to dissolve in water.
Origin and Etymology of Insoluble
The adjective 'insoluble' traces its etymological roots to Latin and Old French. It is derived from the Latin word 'insolubilis,' formed by combining 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'solvibilis,' meaning 'able to be dissolved' or 'able to be loosened.' In Latin, 'solvibilis' was related to 'solvere,' meaning 'to loosen' or 'to solve.' As a result, 'insoluble' originally meant 'not able to be loosened' or 'not able to be dissolved.' Over time, this term evolved to describe anything that presents a profound level of complexity or intractability, defying any attempt at resolution or comprehension. When we refer to a problem or situation as 'insoluble' in modern English, we are emphasizing its deep-rooted and seemingly unresolvable nature, highlighting the formidable challenges it presents.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the adjective insoluble:
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More Usage Examples of Insoluble
1. Some philosophical questions may be insoluble due to their abstract nature.
2. The detective was stumped by an insoluble crime.
3. The complexity of the project made it almost insoluble.
4. The insoluble nature of the problem caused frustration for everyone involved.
5. The conflict between the two countries seemed insoluble, despite diplomatic efforts.
6. The mystery surrounding the ancient artifact remained insoluble.
7. The mathematical problem proved to be utterly insoluble.
8. Their relationship issues seemed insoluble despite counseling.
9. The philosophical question remained insoluble to scholars.
10. The dispute between the neighbors appeared insoluble.
11. The encryption on the document was intentionally insoluble.
12. Solving the environmental crisis seemed insoluble at times.
13. The riddle posed by the Sphinx was famously insoluble.
14. The conflict between the two nations appeared insoluble.
15. The puzzle's intricate design made it insoluble for most.
16. The case became an insoluble legal quagmire.
17. The chemistry problem was nearly insoluble.
18. The paradox left scientists with an insoluble dilemma.
19. The economic crisis appeared insoluble for a while.
20. The novel's enigmatic ending was deliberately insoluble.
21. The family feud became an insoluble generational conflict.
22. The crossword puzzle was so challenging it seemed insoluble.
23. The complex geopolitical issue was seemingly insoluble.
24. The company's financial troubles were almost insoluble.
25. The ethical dilemma felt insoluble to the characters in the story.
Synonyms and Related Words for Insoluble
Related Vocabulary Practice
Test your understanding of insoluble in related quizzes, flashcards, and spelling activities:
Hurdles and Setbacks

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Complexity and Intricacy

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Puzzlement and Perplexity

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