imposibilidad
“imposibilidad” means “impossibility” in Spanish (the state of being unable to happen).
impossibility
Also: inability
📝 In Action
La imposibilidad de viajar este año me pone muy triste.
B1The impossibility of traveling this year makes me very sad.
Existe una imposibilidad física para abrir esa puerta bloqueada.
B2There is a physical impossibility to open that blocked door.
Ante la imposibilidad de pagar la deuda, pidió ayuda al banco.
C1Given the inability to pay the debt, he asked the bank for help.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: imposibilidad
Question 1 of 3
Which article should you use with 'imposibilidad'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'impossibilitas,' which is built from 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'possibilis' (meaning 'able to be done').
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'imposibilidad' used more than 'imposible'?
No, the adjective 'imposible' is much more common in daily speech. 'Imposibilidad' is used when you want to name the concept of being unable to do something.
How do I pluralize this word?
Just add '-es' at the end: 'las imposibilidades'. This is common when talking about multiple obstacles.
Can I use it to talk about people?
Not usually. To say a person can't do something, 'incapacidad' (incapacity) or 'impotencia' (helplessness) are more common, though 'imposibilidad' works for physical limits.