Uncomparable vs. Incomparable — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 1, 2023
Uncomparable typically means "not suitable for comparison" due to being of a different kind or quality, while Incomparable means "having no equal; unmatched."
Difference Between Uncomparable and Incomparable
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Key Differences
Uncomparable is a term that usually implies something is not suitable or fit for comparison, mainly because it's of a different type or category. Incomparable, on the other hand, elevates something as being beyond comparison due to its superior quality or uniqueness.
If one claims a subject is uncomparable, they could be stating it's not reasonable to compare it with another because they're fundamentally different. When one uses incomparable, they're often praising or highlighting that something stands out and cannot be equaled.
For example, comparing a fish's ability to climb a tree to a monkey's would render the fish uncomparable in that context. However, if someone says a musician's talent is incomparable, they are suggesting that the musician's skill is unparalleled.
In everyday language, "incomparable" is more commonly used than "uncomparable." The former tends to be a term of endearment or admiration, suggesting high regard for something or someone. Uncomparable, although less frequent, serves its role in stressing the inappropriateness of making a comparison.
Both terms play crucial roles in language, especially when discussing the merits, qualities, or characteristics of various subjects. But their nuances are essential: uncomparable emphasizes difference, while incomparable emphasizes superiority.
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Comparison Chart
Basic Meaning
Not suitable for comparison.
Beyond comparison due to superiority.
Usage
Less commonly used.
More commonly used, especially in praise.
Connotation
Difference in kind or category.
Superiority or unmatched quality.
Typical Context
When subjects are of different categories.
When emphasizing the unparalleled nature of something.
Associated Feelings
Neutral or about the inappropriateness of comparison.
Admiration or reverence.
Compare with Definitions
Uncomparable
Not warranting a comparison.
The challenges faced by different animals are uncomparable.
Incomparable
Immeasurably above or beyond in excellence or quality.
The maestro's performance was incomparable.
Uncomparable
Not fit for comparison due to being of a distinct category.
Comparing a computer to a rock is uncomparable.
Incomparable
Unique in a manner that makes comparison irrelevant.
His kindness and humility are incomparable.
Uncomparable
Lacking a common basis for comparison.
The problems of the past and present are uncomparable.
Incomparable
Beyond comparison; matchless or unequaled.
Her beauty is incomparable.
Uncomparable
Not suitable or able to be compared.
The sizes of the two companies are uncomparable.
Incomparable
Superior to all others of its kind.
This work of art is truly incomparable.
Uncomparable
Different in nature or kind.
His behavior is uncomparable to anyone else's in the group.
Incomparable
Without an equal or peer.
In terms of dedication, she is incomparable.
Uncomparable
Not able to be compared; not comparable.
Incomparable
Being such that comparison is impossible; incommensurable.
Uncomparable
(grammar) Not comparable.
Incomparable
So outstanding as to be beyond comparison; unsurpassed.
Uncomparable
Such that comparison is impossible; unsuitable for comparison or lacking features that can be compared;
An incomparable week of rest and pleasure
The computer proceeds with its incomparable logic and efficiency
This report is incomparable with the earlier ones because of different breakdowns of the data
Incomparable
So much better than another as to be beyond comparison; matchless or unsurpassed.
Incomparable
(rare) Not able to be compared.
Incomparable
Something beyond compare; a thing with which there is no comparison.
Incomparable
Not comparable; admitting of no comparison with others; unapproachably eminent; without a peer or equal; matchless; peerless; transcendent.
A merchant of incomparable wealth.
A new hypothesis . . . which hath the incomparable Sir Isaac Newton for a patron.
Delights incomparably all those corporeal things.
Incomparable
Such that comparison is impossible; unsuitable for comparison or lacking features that can be compared;
An incomparable week of rest and pleasure
The computer proceeds with its incomparable logic and efficiency
This report is incomparable with the earlier ones because of different breakdowns of the data
Common Curiosities
Can "uncomparable" mean something is unique?
Yes, but it emphasizes that it's not suitable for comparison, often due to being of a different kind.
Is it grammatically correct to use "uncomparable"?
Yes, though it's less common than "incomparable."
Does "incomparable" always indicate something positive?
Generally, "incomparable" suggests something is superior or unmatched, which is positive.
What's the opposite of "incomparable"?
Something that is ordinary or typical might be considered the opposite.
Is "uncomparable" commonly used in English?
No, "incomparable" is more commonly used than "uncomparable."
Can both terms be used interchangeably?
Not always. While both denote non-comparability, "uncomparable" emphasizes difference and "incomparable" emphasizes superiority.
Which term is more flattering?
"Incomparable" is more flattering as it suggests superiority or unmatched quality.
Can an object be both uncomparable and incomparable?
Yes, something can be both different from others (uncomparable) and superior (incomparable).
Can "uncomparable" be used in a negative sense?
It can be neutral, simply indicating something is not fit for comparison.
Is "incomparable" always about superiority?
Typically, but it can also mean something is unique in a way that makes comparison irrelevant.
Do both words originate from the same root?
Yes, both stem from the word "compare."
Is "uncomparable" more about the logic of comparison?
Yes, it emphasizes the inappropriateness or unsuitability of making a comparison.
Can "uncomparable" refer to apples and oranges?
Yes, because they're fundamentally different and often deemed uncomparable.
Would an unparalleled artist be described as uncomparable or incomparable?
Incomparable, suggesting their talent is unmatched.
Can "incomparable" describe feelings?
Yes, one might describe love or grief as incomparable emotions.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
