Definition

Something that cannot be achieved or satisfied.

Example

The promises made during the campaign were deemed unfulfillable by many voters.

Conversation

I feel like some of my goals are just unfulfillable sometimes.

I get that; some expectations can be really unrealistic.

Exactly! It’s frustrating to work towards something that feels impossible.

Totally, maybe we should focus more on achievable goals instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unfulfillable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "fulfill" (from Old English *fullfyllan*, meaning to fill completely), and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word describes something that cannot be filled or completed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being able to 'fill completely' ('fulfill') — that's why unfulfillable means something that cannot be completed.

Visually Confused Words