ineluctable
/ˌɪn.ɪˈlʌk.tə.bəl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Impossible to avoid or escape. It usually describes something that must happen, even if people do not want it.
- The team faced ineluctable change.
- Death is an ineluctable fact of life.
- Her decision seemed ineluctable.
Adinary Nuance
Ineluctable is stronger and more formal than unavoidable or inevitable. Use it when you want to stress that escape is impossible, not just unlikely. It often sounds literary, academic, or serious. Writers choose it for a heavy, final feeling.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- không thể tránh
- Spanish
- ineludible
- Chinese
- 不可避免
- Japanese
- 避けられない
- Korean
- 피할 수 없는
Etymology
Ineluctable came into English from Latin ineluctabilis, meaning “not able to be escaped.” It entered English through learned writing, especially in the 17th century.
Common phrases
ineluctable fateineluctable realityineluctable outcomeineluctable truth
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is ineluctable a common word?
- No, it is uncommon. You will see it more in formal writing, essays, and literature.
- What is the difference between ineluctable and inevitable?
- Both mean something cannot be avoided. Ineluctable sounds more formal and stronger.
- Can I use ineluctable in business writing?
- Yes, but only in formal or serious writing. Inevitable is usually more natural.
- Is ineluctable positive or negative?
- It is usually neutral or negative. It often describes hard truths or unpleasant events.