unsolvable

adjective

un·​solv·​able ˌən-ˈsäl-və-bəl 

-ˈsȯl-

: not able to be explained, answered for, or solved : not solvable

unsolvable disputes

an unsolvable mystery

unsolvably

ˌən-ˈsäl-və-blē 

-ˈsȯl-

adverb

an unsolvably difficult problem

Synonyms of unsolvable

• impossible
• hopeless

Examples of unsolvable in a Sentence

an apparently unsolvable problem

Recent Examples on the Web

Abandoning the project for some more years, another team of archaeologists decided to reopen the unsolvable case. —Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 21 Feb. 2026

The pair’s ability to score from anywhere on the floor makes UConn (23-0, 12-0 in Big East) not just a defensive mismatch, but also an unsolvable problem — at least to this point in the season. —Chantel Jennings, New York Times, 1 Feb. 2026

Quantum computing, once theoretical, is now being harnessed to tackle previously unsolvable problems in fluid dynamics, design of new molecules and materials, and energy optimization. —CBS News, 22 Jan. 2026

At first glance, replacing tens or even hundreds of millions of vanishing federal Medicaid dollars each year is not an unsolvable problem in Connecticut. —Keith M. Phaneuf, Hartford Courant, 7 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1775, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsolvable

• solvable
• irresolvable
• unresolvable
• resolvable