Inklingo

How to Say "unbearable" in Spanish

English → Spanish

imposible

/im-po-SEE-bleh//impoˈsible/

AdjectiveB1General
Use 'imposible' when describing a person or situation that is extremely difficult to manage, control, or tolerate due to their behavior or nature.
A colorful illustration of a massive, stalled traffic jam on a highway, with one driver looking extremely frustrated and annoyed.

Examples

¡Este niño es imposible! No para quieto ni un segundo.

This child is impossible! He doesn't stay still for a second.

El tráfico a esta hora es imposible, vamos a llegar tarde.

The traffic at this hour is unbearable, we're going to be late.

Tratar con esa burocracia es una tarea imposible.

Dealing with that bureaucracy is an impossible task.

insoportable

een-soh-por-TAH-bleh/in.so.poɾˈta.βle/

AdjectiveC1General
Use 'insoportable' to describe strong, unpleasant physical sensations such as pain, heat, or a heavy burden that is difficult to endure.
A character is visibly struggling and sweating profusely under an enormous, blazing yellow sun, depicting unbearable heat.

Examples

El dolor de cabeza era insoportable, tuve que tomar una pastilla.

The headache was unbearable; I had to take a pill.

La humedad del verano hace que el clima sea insoportable.

The summer humidity makes the weather intolerable.

Imposible vs. Insoportable

Learners often confuse 'imposible' and 'insoportable' by using 'imposible' for physical discomfort. Remember, 'imposible' is for difficult people/situations, while 'insoportable' is for intense, negative sensations or burdens.

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