Irreconciliable

Irreconcilable describes things that are so opposed in nature as to be incapable of being brought into agreement or harmony. This often applies to differences of opinion, beliefs, interests, or qualities that are fundamentally incompatible and cannot be resolved or made consistent. The term suggests a deep-seated conflict or contradiction that prevents understanding, compromise, or unification. It implies a lack of common ground where opposing views can be bridged, and highlights a permanent state of divergence or disagreement. The issue can be in the form of differences in thought, behavior, and relationships.

Irreconciliable meaning with examples

• The two countries held diametrically opposed views on the issue of territorial claims, their positions being irreconcilable. Negotiations failed because each side refused to budge, creating a seemingly endless deadlock. Both parties seemed to be stuck with no means of finding common ground. They were unable to reach any settlement, even with the help of a third party.
• After years of animosity and resentment, the couple found their personal values and life goals were irreconcilable, leading to a difficult divorce. Each party would not give the other the time of day, unable to come to terms with their changing needs. Ultimately, they decided to terminate the relationship. The end was a hard time for all of them.
• The fundamental principles of the two political parties were irreconcilable, making bipartisan cooperation nearly impossible. Their platforms were at odds and could not be harmonized. Even when a crisis arose, the party members continued to argue. There was too much animosity for these leaders to agree. Therefore there was no room for compromise.
• The scientist’s experiments produced irreconcilable results, requiring further investigation to uncover the source of the inconsistencies. The findings did not match the research and the results appeared to contradict themselves. There was no way of telling whether the scientist's results were right or wrong. Further research was needed to see how the science held up.
• The philosophical beliefs held by the opposing factions were irreconcilable, leading to passionate debates that were marked by mutual dismissal. The group members could not stand their opposite numbers. No one would listen to any idea other than their own. These positions remained far apart and it looked like it would remain that way.