unattainable

adjective

un·​at·​tain·​able ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-bəl 

: not able to be accomplished or achieved : not attainable

unattainable goals

an unattainable ideal

unattainability

ˌən-ə-ˌtā-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

unattainably

ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms of unattainable

• inaccessible
• unavailable
• untouchable
• unobtainable

Examples of unattainable in a Sentence

an eagle's nest in an unattainable location

unfortunately, world peace is probably an unattainable ideal

Recent Examples on the Web

Homeownership, stable employment, or even just feeding your kids are becoming more unattainable as high inflation and even higher interest rates take up a larger percentage of people’s incomes. —Jacqueline Munis, Fortune, 17 June 2026

To build lasting brand trust, companies need to move away from marketing unattainable luxury and instead emphasize transparent pricing, practical utility and affordable solutions. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 17 June 2026

The effect is to create a layer of talent at the top of the game that is virtually unattainable, shifting the focus of demand down the food chain. —Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 11 June 2026

For too many, the dream of owning or renting a first home in New York is unattainable. —Micah Lasher, New York Daily News, 9 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unattainable

• attainable
• explainable
• maintainable
• obtainable
• sustainable
• ascertainable
• unexplainable
• unobtainable
• unsustainable
• trainable