Word: irreparable (adjective)

Associations

The word "irreparable" means something that cannot be fixed, repaired, or made good again. It is often used to describe damage, harm, or loss that is permanent.

• The damage to the ancient painting was irreparable. (The painting cannot be restored.)
• Losing a loved one can cause irreparable emotional pain. (The pain cannot be undone.)
• Irreparable harm was done to the environment by the oil spill. (The harm is permanent.)

A well-known synonym is "irreversible." The difference is that "irreparable" focuses on the inability to fix or repair, while "irreversible" means something cannot be changed back to its original state. For example, a decision can be irreversible but not necessarily irreparable if the effects can be fixed.

Substitution

Other words or phrases you can use include:

• Unfixable (informal)
• Permanent damage
• Beyond repair
• Irrecoverable

Using these changes the tone a bit. For example, "beyond repair" is very clear and strong, while "unfixable" is more casual.

Deconstruction

"irreparable" comes from:

• Prefix "ir-" meaning "not"
• Root "reparable," from Latin "reparare," meaning "to repair" or "to fix" So, "irreparable" literally means "not able to be repaired."

Inquiry

• Can you think of something in your life that was irreparable?
• How would you explain the difference between "irreparable" and "temporary" damage?
• In what situations might it be important to know if something is irreparable?