out of the question: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘out of the question’ mean?
"Out of the question" means that something is not possible or not allowed. It is typically used to emphasize that something cannot or should not be done.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "under no circumstances" means that something is absolutely forbidden or impossible, regardless of any situation or condition.
The idiom "rule out" means to eliminate or exclude something as a possibility or option. It is often used when discussing a process of elimination or when making a decision based on certain criteria.
Idiom: Rule Out
The idiom "out the window" means something is no longer relevant or disregarded completely, often due to a change in circumstances or plans.
The idiom "out of the way" means to have completed or resolved something and have it no longer in the path or in the way of progress or focus.
The idiom "out of the picture" means to be excluded or no longer involved in a situation or plan.
The idiom "out of the picture" means being excluded or no longer involved in a situation or event. It implies that the person or thing is no longer a factor or of significance in a particular scenario.
The idiom "out of sight" means something or someone that is not visible or cannot be seen. It can also refer to something that is truly amazing or impressive.
*out of reach* means something is not physically accessible or unattainable. It refers to something that is too far away or difficult to obtain.
Idiom: Out of reach
Out of reach is an English idiom that describes something as unattainable or impossible to obtain. It expresses frustration or disappointment when a desired goal or object is beyond one's grasp.
The idiom "out of place" means something or someone not in the correct or suitable position, situation, or context.
The idiom "out of place" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It conveys a sense of not belonging or not fitting into a particular context or environment.
"Out of luck" means to have no good fortune or opportunities, often due to circumstances beyond one's control.
The idiom "out of luck" is a commonly used expression in American English that refers to being in a situation where one does not have any luck or favorable outcomes. It often indicates a lack of success or unfortunate circumstances.
The idiom "out of frame" means that something or someone is not included or considered in a particular situation or context. It suggests that the subject is not within the scope or boundaries of what is being discussed or depicted.
Unthinkable Reality
out of bounds, out of reach, off the table, no go, and under no circumstances are all idioms that are related to the phrase "out of the question." These idioms share a similar meaning of denying or excluding a possibility or idea. Let's explore each of these idioms in more detail:
The idiom "out of bounds" is often used in the context of sports or games, where it refers to a certain area that is off-limits or prohibited. When something is "out of bounds," it means that it is completely forbidden or not allowed. Similarly, when something is "out of the question," it is being completely excluded or denied as a possibility or idea. Both idioms convey a sense of strict prohibition or denial.
The idiom "out of reach" is used to describe something that is physically or metaphorically inaccessible. When something is "out of reach," it means that it is beyond one's grasp or unattainable. This idiom shares a similar concept with "out of the question" in the sense that both phrases imply that something is unattainable or impossible. While "out of reach" specifically emphasizes inaccessibility, "out of the question" focuses on the complete denial or exclusion of a possibility.
The idiom "off the table" is often used in the context of negotiations or discussions. When something is "off the table," it means that it is no longer up for consideration or discussion. This idiom aligns with the phrase "out of the question" in terms of excluding or dismissing a proposal or idea. Both idioms convey a sense of finality and indicate that further discussion or consideration is not warranted.
The idiom "no go" is an informal expression that is used to indicate that something is not possible or is not allowed. When something is a "no go," it means that it cannot be done or is not permitted. This idiom shares similarities with "out of the question" in the sense that both phrases convey a strong denial or exclusion of a possibility. Both idioms are used to definitively express that something is not feasible or acceptable.
The idiom "under no circumstances" is often used to emphasize that something is absolutely forbidden or prohibited. When something is "under no circumstances," it means that there are no situation or conditions in which it would be allowed or acceptable. This idiom aligns with "out of the question" in terms of conveying a strong negation or denial. Both phrases emphasize the complete exclusion or denial of a possibility or idea, leaving no room for compromise or consideration.
The idioms "out of bounds," "out of reach," "off the table," "no go," and "under no circumstances" all share a similar meaning with the phrase "out of the question." These idioms convey a sense of denial, exclusion, or impossibility. Whether it's something that is strictly prohibited, physically or metaphorically inaccessible, not up for discussion, not possible, or absolutely forbidden, these idioms emphasize the strong negation or denial of a possibility or idea. Using these idioms in conversation or writing adds variety and emphasis to express the firmness and finality of the denial or exclusion.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "out of the question" can be used in a sentence:
- Going on a vacation this year is out of the question due to my tight budget.
- Using company funds for personal expenses is completely out of the question.
- My parents told me that getting a tattoo is out of the question until I turn 18.
More "Prohibition" idioms
We missed the mark - nothing found.
