immutable
/ɪˈmjuː.tə.bəl/Describes something that cannot be changed, altered, or modified in any way. It stays exactly the same forever, no matter what happens.
- The laws of mathematics are immutable and apply everywhere in the universe.
- Some moral principles are considered immutable across all human cultures.
- The scientist treated the speed of light as an immutable constant.
Adinary Nuance
"Immutable" is often used where "permanent," "fixed," or "unchangeable" might also fit, but each word has a different strength. "Permanent" means something lasts a very long time or indefinitely — but it could still change; a permanent job can end. "Immutable" is much stronger: it means change is simply not possible, ever. "Fixed" suggests something has been set in place by a decision, while "immutable" suggests a deeper, natural impossibility of change. Choose "immutable" in academic or IELTS writing when you want to argue that something is beyond any human or natural force to alter.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Bất biến
- Spanish
- Inmutable
- Chinese
- 不变的
- Japanese
- 不変の
- Korean
- 불변의
Etymology
From Latin "immutabilis," combining "in-" (not) and "mutabilis" (changeable), from "mutare" meaning "to change." The word entered English in the late 14th century, mainly through scholarly and religious writing.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is 'immutable' formal or informal?
- It is formal and academic. It fits IELTS essays, legal documents, and philosophical writing well. In everyday speech, most people prefer 'unchangeable' or 'fixed.'
- What is the difference between 'immutable' and 'permanent'?
- 'Permanent' means something lasts a very long time or indefinitely, but it could still change in theory. 'Immutable' is stronger — it means change is completely impossible, not just unlikely.
- Can I use 'immutable' in an IELTS essay?
- Yes, it is excellent IELTS vocabulary. It works well in argumentative or discursive essays about laws, scientific facts, or fundamental values. Just make sure the context truly implies something that cannot be changed at all.
- Is 'immutable' common in everyday English?
- Not in casual conversation. You will mostly encounter it in academic texts, philosophy, law, and computer science. In daily speech, people usually say 'it can't be changed' or 'it's set in stone.'