Words / C1

ink-uh-n-SEEV-uh-bl/ˌɪnkənˈsiːvəbl/

Inconceivable means impossible to imagine or believe: it is inconceivable that. Unthinkable is the close twin; a rehearsal is practice, not a lifted embargo.

Meaning

Impossible to imagine or believe.

Examples

• “It is inconceivable to publish before midnight and call it a rehearsal.”
• “Unthinkable is the close twin. Unimaginable is a cousin. A rehearsal is practice. Midnight is a clock. Wait for the lift; then rehearse the hall if you must.”

Good to know

Impossible to imagine. Close: unthinkable. A rehearsal ≠ a lifted embargo.

Near in meaning

unthinkable

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