WordGarden.ioirrevocable
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪrɪvˈɒkəbəl/
US
- /ˌɪˈrɛvəkəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
impossible to change, reverse, or undo
legally not able to be canceled or revoked
Beyond the definition
Imagine building a magnificent sandcastle on the beach. Once the tide comes in and sweeps it away, the loss of that castle is irrevocable—it is gone forever. The word describes something that cannot be changed, reversed, or recovered. A decision, a legal agreement, or even a momentary mistake can be irrevocable; think of it as crossing a point of no return.
You might sign an irrevocable trust, meaning you cannot simply change your mind later about how the assets are handled. Or a choice made in anger may have irrevocable results, leaving a lasting impact even after a sincere apology. It is a powerful word that emphasizes complete finality and permanence.
The word irrevocable describes something that is absolutely unchangeable, irreversible, or unable to be undone. It stems from the Latin irrevocabilis, meaning "not to be called back." This term does not simply imply that something is difficult to change; it signifies that alteration is strictly impossible.
You will frequently encounter irrevocable in legal and financial contexts—such as an irrevocable trust, a contract with irrevocable terms, or a charitable donation that cannot be reclaimed. These represent binding commitments in which the people involved have formally given up the ability to alter their decisions.
However, the word's reach extends far beyond the law. A life-altering event or a deeply felt loss can feel irrevocable, permanently shaping a person's identity and future. A public statement or a drastic life change might be described as irrevocable once the consequences are set in motion.
It is important to distinguish irrevocable from "difficult to change." While many situations require great effort to reverse, they are not truly irrevocable unless they have reached a final state where no turning back is possible. When something is irrevocable, consider it set in stone—a permanent fixture in the landscape of time and consequence. It is a word that carries immense weight, signifying choices and events with a lasting, permanent impact.
Examples
- 1
Final choice
After the deadline, your choice is irrevocable.
- 2
Formal promise
The company made an irrevocable commitment to pay for the cleanup.
- 3
Reputation damage
The scandal caused irrevocable damage to his reputation.
- 4
Family conflict
One bitter argument led to an irrevocable break between the two families.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Estate planning
She put the money in an irrevocable trust for her children.
- Domainan irrevocable trust
a legal arrangement that usually cannot be changed after it is created
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- irrevocable decision
- irrevocable trust
- irrevocable commitment
Word family
Explore
- cancellation
- legal finality
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- irrevocableadjective