Insurmountable

/ɪnsərˈmaʊntəbəl/ adjective

Definition

So difficult or large that it cannot be overcome, defeated, or solved.

Etymology

From prefix 'in-' (not) plus 'surmountable' (able to be overcome), from French 'surmonter' (to overcome), combining 'sur' (over) and 'monter' (to mount/climb).

Kelly Says

Psychologists note that what seems 'insurmountable' is often just about perspective—mountains that look impossible from the base look manageable once you start climbing, showing the word describes our fear more than reality.

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