uncatchable

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʌnˈkætʃəbl/

KK: /ʌnˈkætʃəbl/

adjective

Definition

Something that cannot be caught or captured.

Example

The elusive bird was considered uncatchable by many birdwatchers.

Conversation

Did you see that player in the game last night?

Yeah, he was incredible! So uncatchable in every move.

I know! It felt like no one could even get close to him.

Exactly, he really stood out as the best player on the field.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

elusive

inaccessible

untouchable

Antonyms

catchable

reachable

obtainable

Root Explanation

Uncatchable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "catch" (from Old English "ceccan", meaning to seize or take hold of) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "uncatchable" means not capable of being caught or seized.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') able to be 'seized' ('catch') — that's why we say it's uncatchable.

Visually Confused Words

unscratchable

unwatchable

unmatchable

unhatchable

uncoachable