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Definitions

nonviable

[non-vahy-uh-buhl] / nɒnˈvaɪ ə bəl /
ADJECTIVE
impractical
Synonyms
STRONGEST
absurd illogical impossible improbable quixotic speculative unattainable unreal unusable unwise unworkable useless
WEAK
abstract chimerical idealistic impracticable inapplicable inefficacious infeasible inoperable ivory-tower no-go nonfunctional otherworldly romantic starry-eyed theoretical unbusinesslike unfeasible unserviceable visionary wild won't fly
Antonyms
STRONGEST
logical possible rational reasonable sensible tenable
WEAK
practical
ADJECTIVE
impractical/impracticable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
impossible improbable infeasible unfeasible unworkable
WEAK
abstract absurd chimerical idealistic illogical inapplicable inefficacious inoperable irrealizable ivory tower no-go nonfunctional not a prayer otherworldly out of the question quixotic romantic speculative starry-eyed theoretical unattainable unbusinesslike unreal unserviceable unusable unwise useless visionary wild won't fly
Antonyms
WEAK
practicable practical probable realistic reasonable tenable viable
ADJECTIVE
unnegotiable
Synonyms
WEAK
abstract absurd chimerical idealistic illogical impossible impractical improbable inapplicable inefficacious infeasible inoperable irrealizable ivory-tower no-go nonfunctional not a prayer otherworldly out of the question quixotic romantic speculative starry-eyed theoretical unattainable unbusinesslike unfeasible unreal unserviceable unusable unwise unworkable useless visionary wild won't fly
ADJECTIVE
unusable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
impractical inoperable unattainable unworkable useless
WEAK
abstract absurd chimerical idealistic illogical impossible improbable inapplicable inefficacious infeasible irrealizable ivory-tower no-go nonfunctional not a prayer otherworldly out of the question quixotic romantic speculative starry-eyed theoretical unbusinesslike unfeasible unnegotiable unreal unwise visionary wild won't fly
ADJECTIVE
unworkable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
absurd illogical impossible impractical unattainable unusable useless
WEAK
abstract chimerical idealistic improbable inapplicable inefficacious infeasible inoperable irrealizable ivory-tower no-go nonfunctional not a prayer otherworldly out of the question quixotic romantic speculative starry-eyed theoretical unbusinesslike unfeasible unnegotiable unreal unserviceable visionary wild won't fly
Antonyms
STRONGEST
logical rational reasonable sensible

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for nonviable?
The sense of nonviable that’s applied to living things like embryos or plants essentially means “incapable of living” or “incapable of developing.” Nonviable can also be used more generally to describe something that isn’t going to work or that isn’t practical. Similar words include impractical, unworkable, infeasible, impracticable, and even impossible. All of these suggest that something, such as a plan, won’t be able to be carried out or otherwise realized for practical reasons.
Is it nonviable or unviable?
Nonviable and unviable are both words. Nonviable is more commonly used and can be used generally and in the context of living things. The very similar word unviable is often applied to things thought to be incapable of succeeding, especially business and financial ventures.
How do you use nonviable in a sentence?
Nonviable is perhaps most commonly used in scientific contexts, but it can also be used generally. Here are some examples of nonviable in a sentence:
  • He experimented to determine which seeds were viable and which were nonviable.
  • The venture was found to be commercially nonviable after just a few months.
  • Over time, it becomes nonviable to keep retrofitting old tech.
 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Main said ProPublica’s analysis suggested to him that “physicians are sitting on nonviable pregnancies longer and longer before they’re doing a D&C — until patients are really bleeding.”

From Salon • Jul. 2, 2025

“We’re here to repeal a bad law,” said State Senator Eva Burch, who had an abortion this spring to end a nonviable pregnancy — an experience she described in an emotional floor speech.

From New York Times • May 1, 2024

As part of her campaign, Lands put out an ad in which she shared her own abortion story from a nonviable pregnancy.

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2024

In the past, Jackie and Shadow have lost eggs that have been nonviable, and some have been eaten by ravens.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 15, 2024

About 50% of mutant cells became nonviable within the first week whereas WT cells remained viable for twice the period.

From Science Daily • Jan. 16, 2024

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.