been unable to get

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "been unable to get" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a lack of success in achieving or obtaining something over a period of time. Example: "I have been unable to get the necessary documents for the application process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I have been unable to get local currency.

The Guardian - Travel

Sant said that Small has been unable to get funding to fix the facilities.

The Washington Post

But he has so far been unable to get his plans endorsed by lawmakers.

Independent

Ms. Vilella said she had been unable to get clarification from other agency employees.

The New York Times

These are excellent questions, but I have been unable to get even mediocre answers.

The New York Times

Michael tells IDG that he has been unable to get the Samjiyon online.

The New York Times

I've been unable to "get over it," as Scalia likes to say about Bush v. Gore.

The New Yorker

He's been unable to get a student loan of any considerable size in his name.

The New York Times

She is in Rafah, and she has been unable to get out.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

I'm unable to get to her".

The New York Times

He is unable to get around easily.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "been unable to get", ensure the context clearly indicates what efforts were made to obtain the desired outcome. This adds credibility and demonstrates thoroughness.

Common error

Avoid using a past participle directly after "get" in this construction. For example, instead of "been unable to get obtained", use "been unable to get something".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "been unable to get" functions as a verb phrase expressing a lack of success or ability in obtaining something. It describes a state where an effort to acquire, receive, or achieve a specific object or outcome has not been successful. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "been unable to get" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to express a lack of success in obtaining something. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase sees very common use across a variety of contexts, but predominantly within news and media. It’s suitable for both formal and informal communication, although more formal alternatives such as "failed to obtain" exist. When using the phrase, make sure to use the correct verb tense and clearly indicate the efforts made to achieve the desired outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

failed to acquire

Uses a more formal verb to convey the lack of attainment.

not been capable of obtaining

Emphasizes the lack of capability in achieving something.

found it impossible to receive

Highlights the impossibility of the action instead of the lack of ability.

proven incapable of securing

Highlights a demonstrated inability to obtain something.

haven't managed to secure

Indicates a failure in ensuring or obtaining something.

not succeeded in acquiring

Focuses on the lack of success in the process of obtaining.

not been in a position to obtain

Focuses on external circumstances hindering ability.

struggled to attain

Emphasizes the effort involved and the difficulty in obtaining.

not had the chance to secure

Focuses on the lack of opportunity.

met with failure in obtaining

Highlights the negative outcome of an attempt to obtain.

FAQs

How can I use "been unable to get" in a sentence?

Use "been unable to get" to express a past or ongoing inability to obtain something. For instance, "I have "been unable to get" a response from the company despite multiple attempts."

What are some alternatives to "been unable to get"?

You can use alternatives such as "failed to obtain", "not been capable of obtaining", or "haven't managed to secure", depending on the context. Each alternative slightly shifts the nuance of the sentence.

Is it more formal to say "failed to obtain" instead of "been unable to get"?

"Failed to obtain" generally carries a more formal tone compared to "been unable to get", which is more neutral. Choose the phrasing that best suits the formality of your writing.

When should I use "struggled to attain" instead of "been unable to get"?

Use "struggled to attain" when you want to emphasize the effort and difficulty involved in trying to achieve something. It suggests a more active and challenging process than simply ""been unable to get"".