irreconcilable

[ih-rek-uhn-sahy-luh-buhl, ih-rek-uhn-sahy-]

adjective

1. incapable of being brought into harmony or adjustment; incompatible.

   irreconcilable differences.

2. incapable of being made to acquiesce or compromise; implacably opposed.

   irreconcilable enemies.

noun

1. a person or thing that is irreconcilable.

2. a person who is opposed to agreement or compromise.

irreconcilable

/ ɪˌrɛkənˈsaɪ-, ɪˈrɛkənˌsaɪləbəl /

adjective

1. not able to be reconciled; uncompromisingly conflicting; incompatible

noun

1. a person or thing that is implacably hostile or uncompromisingly opposed

2. (usually plural) one of various principles, ideas, etc, that are incapable of being brought into agreement

Other Word Forms

• irreconcilability noun
• irreconcilableness noun
• irreconcilably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of irreconcilable¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; ir- ² + reconcilable

Example Sentences

Indeed, it is quintessential structured finance—the point of which is to help companies try to achieve seemingly irreconcilable financial-reporting goals.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He cited irreconcilable differences and requested spousal support.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The TV star, born Victoria D. Spelling, filed her petition for divorce in March 2024, citing irreconcilable differences.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Best known for her hits including Chandelier and Titanium, the pop star - whose full name is Sia Furler - cited "irreconcilable differences" when she filed for divorce from Daniel Bernard in March.

Read more on BBC

“Reconciling the irreconcilable is the job at this stage in our history.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• implacable 
• incompatible 
• incongruous 
• inconsistent 
• inexorable 
• uncompromising