Definition

Something that cannot be overcome or dealt with successfully.

Example

The team faced insurmountable challenges during the project.

Conversation

I feel like I have so many tasks to complete before the deadline.

It can be overwhelming sometimes, right?

Yeah, it feels like there are insurmountable challenges ahead of me.

Just take it one step at a time; you'll get through it!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Insurmountable is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "surmount" (from Old French *surmonter*, meaning to overcome or rise above) and the suffix "-able" (meaning capable of). The word describes something that cannot be overcome or risen above.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('in-') able to be 'overcome' ('surmount') — that's why insurmountable means it cannot be overcome.

Visually Confused Words