incontestable
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnkəntˈɛstəbəl/
US
- /ɪŋkəntˈɛstəbəl/
Description
- Undeniable
- Beyond dispute
- Not open to doubt
If something is incontestable, it is so clearly true or certain that no one can reasonably argue against it. Think of a mathematical proof: once it has been shown to be true, the result is beyond dispute. It means more than simply being correct; it means there is no real room for doubt or challenge. A skilled lawyer, for example, might present a case so strong that the jury sees only one logical conclusion. The word suggests a level of certainty that brings debate to an end.
The word "incontestable" describes something so strong, clear, and well supported that it cannot be disputed or denied. It comes from the Latin incontestabilis, meaning "not to be contested." This is not simply about being right; it is about being so clearly true that there is no room for argument.
You might encounter "incontestable" in legal contexts, where a claim or piece of evidence is so strong that the opposing side has no effective answer. For example: "The DNA evidence provided an incontestable link between the suspect and the crime scene." It is also used for facts or truths that are widely accepted, such as an incontestable finding in a well-tested scientific study.
However, "incontestable" is not limited to formal settings. You could say a musician has an "incontestable talent," meaning their skill is so obvious and impressive that no one seriously questions it. You might also speak of someone's incontestable influence on a field, meaning their importance is clear to everyone.
While often used for positive claims, "incontestable" can also describe obligations or unpleasant truths. An incontestable debt, for example, is one that cannot be legally challenged or denied. The key idea is always the same: complete certainty and no real room for debate. So if something is incontestable, it stands as accepted fact, whether people like it or not.
Examples
- 1
Sports lead
By the end of the second half, they had built an incontestable lead.
- 2
Legal evidence
The video provided incontestable evidence of what happened.
- 3
Professional skill
Her skill as a negotiator is incontestable.
- 4
Basic rights
Many people see access to clean water as an incontestable right.
- 5
Market leadership
After a decade of growth, the company became the incontestable leader in its field.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- incontestableadjective