Definition

The condition where something cannot be passed through or crossed, often due to obstacles or difficulties.

Example

The heavy snowfall led to the impassableness of the mountain roads, making travel impossible.

Conversation

Did you hear about the road conditions after the storm?

Yeah, I heard some areas are facing serious impassableness.

That’s really frustrating, especially for people trying to get to work.

I know! It’s going to take a while to clear everything up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Impassableness is formed from "im-" (meaning not) and "passable" (from Latin "passabilis", meaning able to be passed). The suffix "-ness" indicates a state or quality. Therefore, impassableness refers to the state of being not able to be passed or traversed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not able to be passed' — 'im-' means not, and 'passable' means able to be passed. This helps you remember that impassableness describes something that cannot be crossed.

Visually Confused Words