incomprehensible
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incomprehensible
Something that is so strange, complex, or shocking that one cannot grasp or understand it with the mind.
Es ist mir unbegreiflich, wie er diese schwere Prüfung ohne Vorbereitung bestehen konnte.
It is incomprehensible to me how he was able to pass that difficult exam without preparing.
The word consists of the prefix 'un-' (not), the verb 'begreifen' (to understand), and the ending '-lich'. Something that is 'unbegreiflich' (incomprehensible) is literally something you cannot 'grasp' or comprehend with your mind.
Sein plötzlicher Meinungsumschwung war für alle unbegreiflich.
His sudden change of opinion was incomprehensible to everyone.
'Unbegreiflich' (incomprehensible) is very often used in the fixed structure 'Es ist [Person] unbegreiflich, ...' (It is incomprehensible to [person] ...). The person who does not understand something is always in the dative.
Es ist mir unbegreiflich, warum er das getan hat.
It is incomprehensible to me why he did that.
This word expresses more than just not understanding; it often implies a strong emotional reaction such as shock, anger, or amazement. It is used for things that go against logic or expectations.
Die Mannschaft verlor das Spiel durch einen unbegreiflichen Fehler in der letzten Minute.
The team lost the game because of an incomprehensible mistake in the final minute.
understandable
'verständlich' and 'unbegreiflich' can be opposites when it comes to whether you can make sense of something. 'verständlich' can mean that an explanation is clear or that a reaction seems normal and understandable because of the situation. 'unbegreiflich' is stronger and more negative: something is so strange, difficult, or shocking that you cannot understand or accept it. There is a risk of confusion because both have to do with understanding. Pay attention to the prefix 'un-': 'unbegreiflich' does not simply mean 'not clearly worded', but often 'hardly comprehensible'.
Sein Verhalten war für alle unbegreiflich, weil er ohne Grund den Termin abgesagt hat.
His behavior was incomprehensible to everyone because he canceled the appointment for no reason.
Es ist verständlich, dass die Eltern bei der Planung mehr Zeit brauchen.
It is understandable that the parents need more time for the planning.