I cannot repeat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I cannot repeat" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that you are unable to say something again, either due to a lack of memory or a specific request not to repeat it. Example: "I cannot repeat what was said in the meeting, as it was confidential information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"I cannot repeat that".

The New York Times - Sports

"I cannot repeat it enough; I really feel this.

The New York Times - Sports

They've seen 'Schindler's List'; I cannot repeat any of those images".

The New York Times

"I was insulted by him but I cannot repeat what he said," explained Correa.

The Guardian - Sport

He muttered something I cannot repeat here and walked off, apparently irritated even by the mention of the country's name.

The Economist

I have already said in this conference [previously] so I cannot repeat myself, I don't want to repeat myself.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"I am positive this situation cannot repeat itself in Ukraine".

The New York Times

Adam Ant Is the Blueblack Hussar In Marrying The Gunner's Daughter (we cannot repeat that title enough) will also feature a song written in tribute to the late Malcolm McLaren.

The Guardian - Music

We cannot repeat past mistakes.

The Guardian - Opinion

We cannot repeat that mistake again.

The Guardian - Opinion

When she dies you cannot repeat the act.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I cannot repeat" when you want to emphasize your inability or unwillingness to reiterate sensitive or confidential information. It adds a layer of discretion.

Common error

Avoid using "I cannot repeat" in everyday, informal conversations when a simpler phrase like "I can't say" would suffice. Overusing it can sound overly dramatic or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I cannot repeat" functions as a declarative statement expressing the speaker's inability or unwillingness to reiterate something. Ludwig indicates that the statement is correct. Examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, from refraining from repeating insults to avoiding repeating oneself.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I cannot repeat" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that conveys an inability or unwillingness to reiterate something. Ludwig confirms its correctness. It's often used when the information is sensitive, confidential, or when the speaker chooses not to repeat the information for other reasons. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in casual settings to maintain its impact. Semantically related alternatives includes "I am unable to reiterate", "I can't say it again" and "I am not at liberty to disclose that again".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am unable to reiterate

Formally expresses the inability to repeat something.

I can't say it again

Informal way of expressing unwillingness to repeat something.

I am not at liberty to disclose that again

More formal and indirect way of saying something cannot be repeated, often due to confidentiality.

I'm unable to disclose that information

Highlights the inability to share information, rather than repeat it.

That's off the record

Indicates that something should not be repeated, usually because it's confidential.

I won't say it twice

Emphasizes a refusal to repeat something.

I decline to reiterate

Formal refusal to repeat something.

That remains unsaid

Implies the information is best left unrepeated.

Further explanation is unnecessary

Indirectly states that the previous statement does not need repeating.

Let's move on

Suggests a change of subject, implying that the previous topic doesn't need reiterating.

FAQs

How can I use "I cannot repeat" in a sentence?

Use "I cannot repeat" when you are unwilling or unable to say something again, often due to confidentiality or sensitivity. For example, "I cannot repeat what was discussed during the private meeting."

What can I say instead of "I cannot repeat"?

Alternatives include "I am unable to reiterate", "I can't say it again", or "I am not at liberty to disclose that again" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "I cannot repeat"?

It is appropriate when the information is sensitive, confidential, or when there's a specific reason you're unwilling to say something again. For example in legal testimonies or after being asked to reveal classified information.

Is "I cannot repeat" formal or informal?

"I cannot repeat" can be used in both formal and informal contexts but often leans towards a more serious or discreet tone. In very casual settings, simpler alternatives like "I can't say" may be preferable.