The word "insolvable" is spelled with the letter "s" in the middle of the word, despite the fact that it is pronounced with a "z" sound. This is because the word is derived from the Latin word "solvere," which has a double "s" in the middle. When the word was adopted into English, the spelling remained the same, even though the pronunciation shifted. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ɪnˈsɒlvəbl/, with the stress on the second syllable.
The term "insolvable" is an adjective that describes a problem, situation, or puzzle that cannot be solved or resolved. It is derived from the word "solve," which means to find a solution or answer to a particular issue or challenge. When something is deemed insolvable, it indicates that no feasible or practical solution can be found, making it seemingly impossible to overcome or resolve.
In various contexts, "insolvable" may refer to mathematical or logical problems that defy solution, such as certain equations or puzzles which lack a definitive answer or method of resolution. It can also be used to describe complex or intricate dilemmas, conflicts, or disputes that resist easy resolution due to their intricacy, conflicting interests, or resistance to compromise. Additionally, the concept of insolvability can pertain to financial matters, indicating a state where a person, business, or organization lacks the means to fulfill their financial obligations or debts and is unable to be solvent.
The term "insolvable" conveys a sense of finality and impossibility, suggesting that the problem at hand cannot be rectified or resolved by any known means or methods. It implies an inherent and often frustrating lack of a satisfactory solution, leaving individuals or entities grappling with an issue that appears unsolvable or insoluble.
That cannot be solved or explained.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word insolvable is derived from the Latin word insolvibilis, which is a combination of the prefix in- meaning not, and the root solvibilis from the verb solvere meaning to loosen, untie, solve. Therefore, the term insolvable literally means not able to be solved.