are not capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not capable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a lack of ability or capacity to perform a certain action or task. Example: "The outdated software programs are not capable of handling the new data formats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are not capable of anything else".

The Guardian

Americans are not capable of drinking three martinis at lunch.

The New York Times

You are not capable!" The next day: "Worse than yesterday!

The New Yorker

"So far we are not capable of that.

Independent

Software simulators are not capable of detecting input signals coming from the peripherals.

Cornell University

In addition, some older pumps still are not capable of registering triple-digit bills.

The New York Times

They will have to make all these other appointments we are not capable of making".

The New York Times

"The smaller bombs are not capable of causing that catastrophic attack.

The New York Times

In practice, we, almost without exception, are not capable of "living by truth" ourselves.

The New York Times

Children in this position are not capable of making a decision of this magnitude.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Do technological systems generate hazards they are not capable of controlling?

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are not capable", clearly state the action or task that the subject is unable to perform. This provides context and avoids ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "They are not capable", specify "They are not capable of handling complex calculations."

Common error

Avoid using "are not capable" in overly general or vague statements. For example, saying "Humans are not capable" without specifying what humans are supposedly incapable of can lead to misinterpretations and weaken your argument. Always provide specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not capable" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject and indicating a lack of ability or capacity. Ludwig shows examples across diverse contexts, affirming its role in expressing limitations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

39%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are not capable" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express a lack of ability or capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across diverse fields like news, science, and academia. To ensure clarity, it's best to specify the action or task that the subject is unable to perform. While alternatives like "are unable to" or "lack the ability to" exist, "are not capable" maintains a neutral tone suitable for various contexts. Remember to avoid overly broad statements and provide specific context to maximize the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack the ability to

Emphasizes the absence of a specific skill or inherent capacity.

are unable to

A more direct and commonly used substitute, highlighting the impossibility of performing an action.

are not equipped to

Focuses on the lack of necessary resources or tools to complete a task.

are unsuited for

Suggests a mismatch between the subject and the requirements of a specific role or task.

are not cut out for

An informal expression implying a lack of inherent qualities needed for something.

are deficient in

Highlights a specific area of weakness or lacking skill.

cannot handle

Implies an inability to manage or cope with a particular situation or task.

are not up to

Indicates that someone or something does not meet the required standard or level of competence.

fall short of

Focuses on the failure to reach a specific target or expectation.

are out of their depth

Indicates a situation exceeds one's knowledge or skills.

FAQs

How can I use "are not capable" in a sentence?

Use "are not capable" to indicate a lack of ability or capacity to perform a specific action. For example, "The old computers "are not capable" of running the latest software."

What are some alternatives to saying "are not capable"?

You can use alternatives such as "are unable to", "lack the ability to", or "are not equipped to", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "are not capable" or "are incapable"?

Both ""are not capable"" and "are incapable" are grammatically correct. "Are incapable" can sound more formal, while "are not capable" is generally more common and versatile.

What's the difference between "are not capable of" and "are not able to"?

While both express a lack of ability, "are not capable of" often implies a more fundamental or inherent limitation, whereas "are not able to" might suggest a temporary or situational inability.