Unable to work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Unable to work" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where someone cannot perform their job or tasks due to various reasons, such as illness or external circumstances. Example: "Due to the severe weather conditions, I am unable to work today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Unable to work, Ms. Mason relied on public assistance.

The New York Times

Unable to work, he went into a liquor-fueled depression.

Vice

Many were unable to work.

The New York Times - Arts

Without it, he was unable to work.

The New York Times

She is unable to work.

The Guardian

And he was unable to work".

The New York Times

All ESA claimants are unable to work.

The Guardian

He just sat at his drafting table, unable to work.

The New York Times - Books

In other words, they had to be unable to work.

The New York Times

More investment is vital, particularly for those unable to work.

The Guardian - Opinion

She has been unable to work since then, he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unable to work", ensure the context clearly indicates the reason for the inability, such as illness, injury, or other circumstances. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using overly formal alternatives when a simple, direct statement is more appropriate. In many cases, "unable to work" is clearer and more accessible than more complex or technical phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unable to work" functions as an adjective phrase modifying an implied or stated subject, indicating a state of incapacity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes a condition where someone cannot perform work-related tasks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Huffington Post

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Vice

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unable to work" is a common phrase used to describe a state of incapacity for performing work-related tasks. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase is prevalent in various contexts, including news, scientific publications, and business communications. While alternatives exist, such as "incapable of working" or "not fit to work", the choice depends on the specific nuance intended. When using this phrase, clarity about the reason for the inability is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Incapable of working

Emphasizes a lack of inherent capacity or ability.

Not fit to work

Highlights a lack of suitability or preparedness, often due to health.

Unfit for duty

Often used in contexts where there's a formal obligation to perform specific tasks, such as military or law enforcement.

Out of work

Focuses on the state of not having employment, potentially due to being unable to work.

Off work

Implies a temporary absence from work, typically due to illness or injury.

Not working

A more general statement indicating a lack of current employment or activity.

Deemed unfit to work

Suggests an official assessment or judgment of someone's inability to work.

Prevented from working

Highlights external factors or circumstances that impede someone's ability to work.

Restricted from working

Emphasizes limitations placed on the type or amount of work someone can do.

Unable to perform job duties

Specifies an inability to fulfill the requirements of a particular job or role.

FAQs

How can I use "unable to work" in a sentence?

You can use "unable to work" to describe a person's current employment status due to a medical condition, injury, or other circumstances. For example: "She has been "unable to work" since the accident."

What are some alternatives to "unable to work"?

Some alternatives include "incapable of working", "not fit to work", or "out of work", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "unable to work" or "cannot work"?

"Unable to work" and "cannot work" are largely interchangeable. "Unable to work" might be perceived as slightly more formal, but both are correct and commonly used.

What's the difference between "unable to work" and "unemployed"?

"Unable to work" specifically indicates an incapacity to perform work, often due to health or other limiting factors. "Unemployed" /s/unemployed simply means not currently having a job, without necessarily implying an inability to work.