The word "unworkable" is spelled with five syllables: /ʌnˈwɜːkəbəl/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "u" sound as in "up," followed by the stressed syllable "work" with the long "o" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with the unstressed "uh" sound, followed by the "b" and "l" sounds. This word is used to describe something that cannot be made to work or function properly, often due to impracticality or inefficiency.
"Unworkable" is an adjective that describes something that is not practical or feasible, rendering it incapable of achieving desired outcomes. The term is often used to indicate that a particular plan, concept, or solution cannot be implemented or executed successfully due to inherent flaws, limitations, or impracticality.
In various contexts, such as business, politics, economics, or engineering, "unworkable" is employed to critique ideas or proposals that lack viability or effectiveness. It suggests that the proposed course of action is hindered by insurmountable obstacles or contradictions, making its successful implementation impossible, unreliable, or unsustainable.
For instance, in economics, an unworkable policy may describe a governmental regulation or plan that, despite its intended purpose, fails to bring about the desired outcomes or wreaks unintended consequences. In the realm of engineering, an unworkable design could refer to a concept that is not functional or too operationally complex.
Overall, "unworkable" acts as a veto on the feasibility or practicality of an idea, emphasizing its impracticability and raising doubts about its success or functionality. It indicates that the proposed solution lacks the necessary practicality, logic, or adaptability required to accomplish its desired objectives and is likely to result in failure or dissatisfaction if pursued.
The word "unworkable" is derived from the combination of the prefix "un-" and the adjective "workable".
The prefix "un-" is of Old English origin, and it functions to negate or reverse the meaning of the word it is attached to. In this case, "un-" indicates the opposite of what follows, so "unworkable" signifies something that is not workable or incapable of being effectively worked upon or carried out.
The term "workable" can be traced back to the verb "work" + the suffix "-able", which is derived from the Latin suffix "-abilis" meaning "capable of, fit for". Thus, "workable" means something that is capable of being worked upon, feasible, or practical.