out of reach
/aʊt əv riːtʃ/unable to be touched, accessed, or obtained
The rescue team found the survivors, but they were out of reach due to the unstable terrain.
The survivors were in a place that couldn't be safely accessed by the rescue team.
Her dreams of becoming a famous singer seemed out of reach.
She felt her goal of becoming a famous singer was unattainable.
This phrase can refer to physical distance or metaphorical impossibility.
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Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Physical vs. Metaphorical Use
This phrase can describe both physical distance (e.g., an object too high to grab) and metaphorical distance (e.g., a goal that seems impossible to achieve).
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
Always consider whether 'out of reach' is being used literally (physical distance) or figuratively (metaphorical impossibility).
📖Word Origin
From the combination of 'out' (not inside) and 'reach' (to extend one's hand or arm to touch or grasp something).
📝Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used to describe both physical and metaphorical situations where something cannot be accessed or achieved.