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ineffable

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɪˈnɛf.ə.bəl/

KK: /ɪˈnɛfəbəl/

adjective
Definition

Something that cannot be described in words or is too great to be expressed.


Example

The beauty of the sunset was ineffable, leaving everyone speechless.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever experienced something so beautiful that it felt ineffable?
Sloth B
Absolutely! There are moments that just leave you speechless.
Sloth A
Exactly! Sometimes words just can't capture the feeling.
Sloth B
Right? It's like those memories are meant to be felt, not described.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
unspeakable
indescribable
inexpressible
Antonyms
expressible
articulate
definable
Root Explanation

Ineffable → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "effabilis" (from Latin, meaning able to be expressed). The word "ineffable" describes something that cannot be expressed in words, or is beyond description.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not able to be expressed' — 'in-' means not, and 'effabilis' means able to be expressed. This helps you remember that ineffable refers to something so amazing or overwhelming that it cannot be put into words.

Visually Confused Words
inaffable
effable
fineable
indefinable
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