Definition

Adjective: 1. Impossible to answer or refute: Describes a question, argument, or point that is so strong, logical, or conclusive that it cannot be answered, disputed, or argued against effectively. 2. Not capable of being answered: Describes a question or problem for which no satisfactory or correct answer exists or can be found.

Usage

The word "unanswerable" is used to describe statements, questions, or logical positions that are definitive, irrefutable, or beyond dispute. It emphasizes a lack of possible counterargument or response.

Examples

• Describing an argument or point:
  • The lawyer presented an unanswerable case, leaving the jury with no doubt.
  • Her logic was unanswerable; we had to concede the point.
• Describing a question:
  • "Why is there something rather than nothing?" is often considered an unanswerable philosophical question.
  • The child asked an unanswerable question about the nature of time.

Advanced Usage

• "unanswerable to": This phrase is not standard for the core meaning of "unanswerable." The core meaning is "impossible to answer," not "not required to answer to someone." That latter concept is typically expressed by "not answerable to."
  • Correct for core meaning: The evidence against the theory is unanswerable.
  • For a different meaning: The agency is answerable to parliament, not unanswerable to it.

Variants and Related Words

• Unanswered (adj): Not answered or responded to. (Focuses on the lack of a response, not the impossibility of one).
  • The email remained unanswered for weeks.
• Answerable (adj): Capable of being answered; or responsible or accountable to someone.
  • That question is easily answerable.
  • Managers are answerable to the board.

Synonyms

• Irrefutable: Impossible to deny or disprove.
• Incontrovertible: Not able to be denied or disputed.
• Conclusive: Serving to prove a case; decisive.
• Unarguable: Not open to disagreement.

Antonyms

• Answerable: Capable of being answered.
• Debatable: Open to discussion or argument.
• Refutable: Able to be proven false.
• Questionable: Doubtful or open to challenge.

Adjective

1. impossible to answer
   • an unanswerable argument