Definition

Something that cannot be solved or resolved; it has no possible solution.

Example

The math problem was so complex that it seemed insolvable.

Conversation

Have you ever tried to solve that puzzle we got last week?

Yeah, I gave it a shot, but it felt completely insolvable.

I thought so too! It’s like they made it just to confuse us.

Exactly! Some problems just seem insolvable no matter what.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Insovable → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "solvable" (from Latin "solvere", meaning to loosen or solve). The word "insolvable" means not able to be solved or loosened.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to 'solve' something ('solvere') — that's why insolvable means something that cannot be solved.

Visually Confused Words