The phrase "beyond reach" is spelled with the IPA transcription /bɪˈjɑnd riːtʃ/. The first syllable starts with a short "i" sound, followed by a "y" sound that blends with the "a" sound in the second syllable. The "nd" in the second syllable is pronounced as a nasal sound, and the "r" is slightly rolled. The final syllable has a long "ee" sound, followed by the "tʃ" sound, which is a blend of "t" and "sh". This phrase means something is out of one's grasp or unattainable.
Beyond reach means something that is inaccessible or unattainable. It refers to a situation or object that cannot be reached physically, emotionally, or figuratively. This phrase implies that a desired goal, a physical object, or a state of mind is beyond one's capability to obtain or achieve.
In a literal sense, beyond reach suggests that something is physically distant or impossible to grasp or touch. For example, a high shelf that is beyond reach cannot be accessed easily without the help of a ladder or a person of taller height. It can also refer to an object or place that is in a remote location and difficult to reach, such as an isolated mountain peak or a hidden cave.
Figuratively, beyond reach pertains to goals, ambitions, or desires that are out of one's grasp or ability to attain. It implies that the desired outcome is too difficult, impossible, or far-fetched to achieve. For instance, a person's dream of becoming a famous singer may be beyond reach if they lack the necessary talent or resources to pursue a career in music.
Additionally, beyond reach can convey an emotional aspect, denoting an unreachable state of mind or emotional connection. This could mean that a person is emotionally distant, detached, or unresponsive. For example, someone who is grieving may feel overwhelmed with sadness and be unable to connect with others, feeling as if they are beyond reach.
The word "beyond reach" can be analyzed by breaking it down into its two components: "beyond" and "reach".
1. Beyond: The word "beyond" originated from the Old English word "begeondan", which can be further traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "bi-gendan", meaning "beyond" or "above". It combines the prefix "be-" (indicating "around" or "beside") and "genda" (meaning "yonder" or "that side").
2. Reach: The word "reach" comes from the Old English word "rǣcan", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "raikjanan", meaning "to extend" or "to stretch out". This term has cognates in various Germanic languages, including German ("reichen") and Dutch ("reiken").