immutable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
immutable Word Meanings
- unable to be changed or modified
- unchanging over time or unable to be changed
- not subject to variation or alteration
immutable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
immutable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈmjuːtəbl/
US
/ɪˈmjuːtəbl/
immutable Word Etymology
Root decomposition: im- (not) + mutare (to change). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a strong statue that remains unchanged despite storms around it, symbolizing stability and permanence.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Immutable means unable to be changed or modified. In everyday use, it describes things that stay the same over time, despite attempts to alter them. In computing, an immutable object cannot be modified after it is created, which can simplify reasoning about code and help prevent bugs. The idea also appears in laws, records, and standards that are fixed. Learners often confuse immutable with durable or permanent; the nuance is about capacity to be altered rather than existence of a temporary state. A memory image might be a statue whose surface is not changed by weather, symbolizing stability and permanence.
Usage Reminders
- Use immutable to describe data or objects that cannot be changed after creation. In programming, it helps avoid side effects and makes code easier to reason about. Do not equate immutable with temporary or changeable. In everyday language it emphasizes the capacity to stay the same, not the duration. When describing laws, standards, or records, immutable highlights fixed status.
Common Misconceptions
- Immutable means something is permanently fixed in all contexts.
- If something is immutable, you cannot create a new version of it at all.
- Immutable objects cannot be created and then discarded or replaced.
- Immutable equals zero change over time, regardless of environment.
- Only strings are immutable; numbers and objects can be immutable too.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that immutability is about the capacity not to change, not about time. Learners may equate it with durability or permanence, confusing when they need to modify data in certain scenarios.
Learning Tips
- Practice by identifying immutable vs mutable objects in code.
- Use versioned data structures to see how immutability changes workflows.
- Remember that rebinding a reference is not the same as mutating an object.
- Compare immutable objects with constants in your language.
- Read docs to check if a type is immutable by design or by usage.
- Create mental images of a statue that resists weather to remember stability.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'immutable'?
A.Moving
B.Unchanging
C.Growing
D.Shrinking
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'immutable' used correctly?
A.She bought a new car and decided to sell her old one.
B.The tree in the backyard was changing colors with the seasons.
C.He believed that friendships were immutable and lasted a lifetime.
D.The company was constantly adapting its products to meet customer demands.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'immutable'?
A.Changeable
B.Variable
C.Flexible
D.Temporary
Step 4: Opposite Words
In which real-life scenario would 'immutable' apply?
A.A stone sculpture remaining unaltered for centuries
B.A government passing new laws every month
C.Seasons changing from summer to winter
D.A student changing interests and hobbies frequently
Step 5: Mastery
Can you explain the concept of 'immutable' in your own words?
A.Stable and unchanging
B.Flexible and ever-changing
C.Adaptable to any situation
D.Subject to constant modification
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