cannot be countenanced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be countenanced" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express that something is unacceptable or cannot be tolerated. Example: "Such behavior cannot be countenanced in our organization, as it goes against our core values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Israeli Prime Minister expressed his outrage over the attack, personally telling Mohammed's father, Hussein Abu Khdeir, "We denounce all brutal behavior; the murder of your son is abhorrent and cannot be countenanced by any human being".

Huffington Post

This kind of suffering so close to American shores cannot be countenanced.

The New York Times

"Such use of a subpoena cannot be countenanced by the court," he wrote in his motion, "and the subpoena must therefore be quashed".

The New York Times

But last week the German chancellor Angela Merkel is believed to have also made clear in talks with Lagarde that a further restructuring involving the official sector – for that is what it would take – cannot be countenanced until German elections next September.

The Guardian - Business

The fact that these prominent Israelis support this operation in such high numbers highlights what the authors of the letter have failed to point out: Israelis see the constant barrage of rockets on their civilian populations as an existential threat and intolerable situation that cannot be countenanced.

The Guardian

Thus, claims that a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian problem cannot be countenanced because the land is holy to Jews are absurd in Leibowitz's eyes.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But a repetition could not be countenanced.

The Economist

No such refusal should be countenanced in the future.

The Guardian - Sport

He told reporters that Goldman's performance had been "abysmal, unacceptable and won't be countenanced".

The New York Times

No more miracles were to be countenanced, except those warrantied by Scripture.

The New Yorker

No more than the minimum departure from open justice will be countenanced".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot be countenanced" in formal writing to express strong disapproval or the impossibility of accepting something. For example, "Such blatant disregard for safety regulations cannot be countenanced."

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be countenanced" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "can't be accepted" or "isn't okay" are more appropriate for everyday use.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be countenanced" functions as a declarative statement expressing strong disapproval or rejection. It's a passive construction indicating that something is not permissible or tolerable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be countenanced" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase best suited for formal contexts to express strong disapproval or rejection. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness. While "cannot be tolerated" or "is unacceptable" serve as alternatives, understanding the phrase's function and level of formality is crucial for effective communication. It is most frequently encountered in news and scientific sources, reflecting its use in serious and professional discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be tolerated

This alternative is a direct synonym, focusing on the lack of acceptance of something.

cannot be accepted

This phrase emphasizes the inability to agree or approve of something.

cannot be condoned

This option highlights that something should not be excused or forgiven.

is unacceptable

A more direct statement indicating that something does not meet standards or expectations.

is inadmissible

This alternative suggests that something is not allowed or permitted, often in a legal or formal context.

is impermissible

This highlights that something is not allowed, suggesting a formal prohibition.

cannot be endured

Focuses on the inability to withstand or put up with something, suggesting a high level of objection.

cannot be borne

Similar to 'cannot be endured', this highlights the inability to tolerate a situation or action.

is not permissible

Emphasizes that something is not allowed or authorized.

is out of the question

This indicates that something is completely impossible or unacceptable.

FAQs

What does "cannot be countenanced" mean?

The phrase "cannot be countenanced" means something is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated or approved. It's a formal way of expressing strong disapproval.

When is it appropriate to use "cannot be countenanced"?

It's best to use "cannot be countenanced" in formal writing or speech, such as in legal documents, official statements, or academic papers. In informal settings, simpler alternatives are more suitable.

What can I say instead of "cannot be countenanced"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot be tolerated", "cannot be accepted", or "is unacceptable" depending on the context.

Is "cannot be countenanced" grammatically correct?

Yes, "cannot be countenanced" is grammatically correct. It follows the structure of a passive voice construction and is used correctly in formal English.