Word: impermeable (adjective)

Associations

The word "impermeable" means something that does not allow liquids or gases to pass through it. It is often used in science, construction, and everyday life to describe materials or surfaces that block water, air, or other substances.

• Example 1: "The raincoat is made of impermeable material, so you stay dry in the rain." Here, it means water cannot pass through the raincoat.
• Example 2: "The soil was impermeable, so the water could not soak into the ground." This means water cannot go through the soil.
• Example 3: "The container is impermeable to air, keeping the food fresh inside." This means air cannot enter or leave the container.

A synonym is "waterproof," but "waterproof" usually refers only to water, while "impermeable" can mean no liquids or gases can pass through.

Substitution

Instead of "impermeable," you could say:

• "waterproof" (only for water)
• "airtight" (only for air)
• "sealed" (general, but less specific about blocking liquids or gases) Using these changes the meaning slightly, focusing on specific substances or the general idea of blocking passage.

Deconstruction

• Prefix: "im-" means "not."
• Root: "permeable" comes from "permeate," which means "to pass through." So, "impermeable" literally means "not able to be passed through."

Inquiry

• Can you think of other things that need to be impermeable in daily life?
• How would you explain the importance of impermeable materials in building houses or making clothes?
• Have you ever experienced a situation where something was not impermeable and caused a problem? What happened?