Impracticable vs. Impractical

Attribute	Impracticable	Impractical
Definition	Not able to be done or put into practice due to being too difficult or impractical	Not sensible or realistic; not practical or useful
Feasibility	Usually refers to something that is technically possible but not practical or realistic to implement	Refers to something that is not sensible or realistic to carry out
Implementation	Refers to the execution or carrying out of a plan or idea that is deemed too difficult or impractical	Refers to the execution or carrying out of a plan or idea that is not sensible or realistic
Viability	Usually implies that something is not viable due to being too difficult or impractical to achieve	Refers to something that is not viable due to being not sensible or realistic

Definition

Impracticable and impractical are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Impracticable refers to something that is not capable of being put into practice or carried out, usually due to being too difficult or impossible. On the other hand, impractical refers to something that is not sensible or realistic, often due to being inefficient or illogical.

Usage

Impracticable is typically used to describe situations or tasks that are simply not feasible to accomplish. For example, building a bridge across a wide river with no available resources would be considered impracticable. Impractical, on the other hand, is used to describe ideas or plans that are not practical or sensible. For instance, wearing a ball gown to a casual picnic would be considered impractical.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between impracticable and impractical:

• It would be impracticable to travel to the moon without the necessary technology and resources.
• Wearing high heels to go hiking would be impractical due to the discomfort and lack of support.
• Attempting to swim across an ocean would be impracticable without proper training and equipment.
• Buying a sports car when you have a large family would be impractical due to the lack of space.

Consequences

When something is deemed impracticable, it often means that the desired outcome is simply not achievable given the current circumstances. This can lead to disappointment or frustration, but it can also prompt individuals to find alternative solutions or approaches. On the other hand, when something is considered impractical, it may result in wasted time, resources, or effort. It can also lead to inefficiency or imprudent decision-making.

Considerations

When faced with a situation that may be deemed impracticable or impractical, it is important to carefully evaluate the factors at play. Consider the resources available, the feasibility of the task, and the potential consequences of pursuing a particular course of action. By weighing these considerations, individuals can make more informed decisions and avoid unnecessary setbacks or challenges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while impracticable and impractical may seem similar at first glance, they actually have distinct meanings and implications. Impracticable refers to something that is not feasible or achievable, while impractical refers to something that is not sensible or efficient. By understanding the differences between these two words, individuals can better navigate challenging situations and make more informed decisions.