cannot be approached

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be approached" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is inaccessible or cannot be reached, either physically or metaphorically. Example: "The problem is so complex that it cannot be approached without a thorough understanding of the underlying principles."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The Oscars cannot be approached ironically (although James Franco certainly tried).

The New York Times

"It's something that cannot be approached in terms of a business," he said.

The Guardian

"The situation in Nauru cannot be approached as simply a difference of opinion between political groupings," Dabwido and Stephen wrote.

The Guardian

The letter said: "We believe men's issues cannot be approached in the same way as unfairness and discrimination towards women, because women are structurally unequal to men.

Independent

The Johns Hopkins Glacier, for example, cannot be approached any nearer than about 2 miles (3 km) by sea because of the volume of the ice blocks that break loose from its cliffs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

An E350 cannot be approached for under $52,000.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"The relationship between centralism and decentralization is a problem which…cannot be approached in principle, but…only with great spiritual tact, with the constant and tireless weighing and measuring of the right proportion between them".

SEP

The way forward partly involves embracing the fact that even the near future cannot be predicted with anything approaching certainty.

The New Yorker

The classification of the scorpaeniforms cannot be said to have approached a final synthesis.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A goal is utopian if it cannot be reached or even approached.

SEP

Justifiying the reasons for preventing details of further financial affairs being revealed, the judge said: "There cannot be a blanket approach.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be approached", clearly specify why something cannot be approached. Providing the reason enhances the clarity and impact of your statement.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "cannot be approached" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "can't reach" or "can't get to" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be approached" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating an inability or prohibition to approach something. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. Examples show it applies to tangible objects, abstract issues, and methodologies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be approached" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that indicates something is inaccessible or requires an alternative method. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. As shown by examples from diverse sources like the BBC, The New York Times, and scientific journals, it often appears in formal and technical contexts. When using "cannot be approached", it's best practice to clearly state the reason for the inaccessibility and consider simpler alternatives in informal situations. Remember that this expression serves to communicate a limitation or barrier, prompting a search for alternative strategies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unapproachable

Describes something as inherently difficult to approach, often due to its nature.

is inaccessible

Focuses on the lack of access to something.

is unreachable

Highlights the impossibility of reaching something, physically or metaphorically.

is not amenable to

Emphasizes a lack of suitability for a particular treatment or method.

cannot be accessed

Specifically points to the inability to gain access.

is beyond reach

Indicates that something is unattainable.

is out of bounds

Suggests that something is forbidden or restricted.

is off-limits

Similar to 'out of bounds', implying a restriction or prohibition.

is not viable

Highlights that something is not practical or feasible.

defies approach

Emphasizes that something resists attempts to deal with or understand it.

FAQs

What does "cannot be approached" mean?

The phrase "cannot be approached" means something is inaccessible, either physically or methodologically. It indicates that a standard or direct method of engagement is not possible or advisable.

How can I use "cannot be approached" in a sentence?

You can use "cannot be approached" to describe problems, physical locations, or even abstract concepts that are difficult or impossible to deal with directly. For example: "The issue "cannot be approached" without more data."

What are some alternatives to "cannot be approached"?

Alternatives include "is inaccessible", "is unreachable", or "is not amenable to", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "cannot be approached" or "is unapproachable"?

While both are valid, "cannot be approached" often refers to a specific situation or method, while "is unapproachable" describes something's inherent quality. For example, a glacier "cannot be approached" due to icefalls, while a person might be described as "is unapproachable" due to their demeanor.