unattainable

adjective

un·​at·​tain·​able ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-bəl 

: not able to be accomplished or achieved : not attainable

unattainable goals

an unattainable ideal

unattainability

ˌən-ə-ˌtā-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

unattainably

ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms of unattainable

• inaccessible
• unavailable
• untouchable
• unobtainable

Examples of unattainable in a Sentence

an eagle's nest in an unattainable location

unfortunately, world peace is probably an unattainable ideal

Recent Examples on the Web

But, as Egerton concludes, the gains of the 1950s and 1960s would have been unattainable without the groundwork laid by this earlier generation of activists. — Literary Hub, 2 Oct. 2026

Seismic standards remain, but seem unattainable with the current setup. — Chandler Rome, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2026

If that feels unattainable, though, Baldino’s other spots are equally excellent and open to anyone. — Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 21 Sep. 2026

For leaders, this means exercise is a critical tool to maintain cognitive function when perfect sleep is unattainable. — Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unattainable

• attainable
• explainable
• maintainable
• obtainable
• sustainable
• ascertainable
• unexplainable
• unobtainable
• unsustainable
• trainable