cannot be entertained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be entertained" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing that an idea, request, or suggestion cannot be considered or accepted. For example, "I'm sorry, I cannot be entertained by such an irresponsible suggestion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The possibility that he is both -- or that he is neither, but rather a complex and contradictory historical figure -- cannot be entertained.

The New York Times

We expected this finding because, if a surgical option cannot be entertained, a masking approach by extracting upper premolars is most likely considered instead.

Progress in Orthodontics

The proposed reason why Tarski believed it not to be possible to discuss the notion of truth in natural languages themselves, cannot be entertained from the viewpoint of IFL.[61] Expressive power.

SEP

By the same token, there is no reason why other codons with still more bases cannot be entertained.

FEBS Letters

In view of the above, we feel that an academic challenge to the constitutionality of a legislative provision cannot be entertained.

Globalization and Health

Hence, the idea of a "substance S" as a somatic change that functions as a sort of clock, independently of the presence of state-specific genes, cannot be entertained.

Biogerontology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Early on, Brazil and Colombia did everything possible to disprove the stereotype that 0-0 soncer on a 40-degree night, with nothing other than pride at stake, cannot be entertaining.

The New York Times - Sports

Such ideas cannot even be entertained as long as the chimera of a negotiated two-state solution monopolizes all attention.

The New York Times

Be entertained.

The Guardian - Sport

"People will be entertained".

The New York Times

I go to be entertained".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, prefer "cannot be entertained" over more colloquial rejections to maintain a professional tone.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be entertained" in informal settings where a more relaxed or direct rejection would be more appropriate. It can sound overly formal or even pretentious in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be entertained" functions as a modal expression indicating that something is not permissible or possible to consider. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

13%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be entertained" is a formal phrase used to firmly reject an idea or suggestion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not overly common, it appears primarily in scientific and news contexts. When writing, use "cannot be entertained" to convey a clear, somewhat detached rejection, but be mindful of the formality it implies. Consider alternatives like "cannot be considered" for similar meanings. Being aware of the phrase's register ensures its effective use in appropriate settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be considered

This alternative focuses on the lack of possibility for consideration, emphasizing that something is out of the question.

is not acceptable

This alternative highlights the unacceptability of something, rather than the inability to consider it.

is out of the question

This phrase strongly rejects an idea, proposal, or action.

is not an option

This suggests a lack of feasibility or availability.

is inadmissible

This term implies that something cannot be allowed or accepted, often in a formal context.

is not feasible

Focuses on the practicality of something, indicating that it's not achievable or realistic.

is beyond consideration

Emphasizes that something is outside the scope of what can be thought about or discussed.

is unthinkable

Indicates that something is so unlikely or undesirable that it cannot be imagined or contemplated.

is ruled out

Suggests a formal rejection or elimination of something from a set of possibilities.

is off the table

This idiom means something is no longer being considered or discussed.

FAQs

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

Use "cannot be entertained" to express that an idea, suggestion, or request is not possible to consider. For example, "The suggestion that we reduce our quality standards "cannot be entertained"".

What are some alternatives to "cannot be entertained"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot be considered", "is not acceptable", or "is out of the question" depending on the context.

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

It's appropriate in formal contexts where a firm but polite rejection is necessary. This includes professional correspondence, academic writing, and official statements.

What does it mean when something "cannot be entertained"?

It means that the idea or proposal is not feasible, acceptable, or appropriate for further consideration. It's a firm way of saying no without being overly aggressive.