cannot be expressed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be expressed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is beyond the ability to articulate or convey in words. Example: "The depth of her emotions cannot be expressed in mere words."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There should be no ideas that cannot be expressed.

The New York Times

When social conflict cannot be expressed politically, it becomes criminality and xenophobia, terrorism and intolerance.

The Guardian - Opinion

If it cannot be expressed through action or conversation, cut it.

The New York Times

And its characters experience no emotions that cannot be expressed through such material trappings.

The New York Times - Books

Jones realised that the decimal 3.141592 … never ends and that it cannot be expressed precisely.

The Guardian

Irrational number, any real number that cannot be expressed as the quotient of two integers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Irrational numbers are ones that cannot be expressed as the ratio of two whole numbers - for instance, 5/2.

The Guardian

That which cannot be expressed accumulates and seethes inside, only to erupt where and when it can.

The Guardian

Perhaps Matt Glaser, in Episode 9, says it best: "Music expresses things that cannot be expressed any other way.

The New York Times - Arts

These organisations believe that a brand cannot be expressed in a consistent way externally unless it is 'lived' internally.

The Guardian

The enormity of the loss of this good, kind and gracious lady cannot be expressed in words.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot be expressed" to convey the inadequacy of language in capturing complex emotions, abstract concepts, or profound experiences.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be expressed" when simpler alternatives like "difficult to explain" or "hard to describe" would suffice. Reserve it for situations where the subject truly defies linguistic capture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be expressed" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating the inability to articulate or communicate something effectively. Ludwig examples show its frequent use in describing abstract concepts, emotions, or quantities that defy simple linguistic representation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be expressed" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to indicate the limitations of language in capturing complex ideas or emotions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various domains. While it's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, remember to reserve it for situations where simpler alternatives don't fully convey the intended meaning. As shown by Ludwig examples, it is frequently seen in scientific papers, news articles and encyclopedias.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is inexpressible

Focuses on the inherent quality of being beyond expression.

is beyond words

Highlights that the subject exceeds the capacity of language.

defies description

Emphasizes the difficulty in providing an adequate account.

is impossible to articulate

Stresses the lack of ability to verbally communicate it.

eludes representation

Indicates a failure to capture the essence through any means.

is unutterable

Implies that something is so profound or sacred it should not be spoken.

is beyond comprehension

Focuses on the inability to understand something fully.

is difficult to convey

Highlights the struggle in effectively communicating something.

is hard to put into words

Emphasizes the challenge of finding the right language.

is not easily communicated

Suggests that the subject resists simple transmission of its meaning.

FAQs

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

Use "cannot be expressed" to indicate that something is too profound, complex, or intense to be adequately conveyed through language. For example, "The depth of her sorrow "cannot be expressed" in mere words."

What are some alternatives to "cannot be expressed"?

You can use alternatives like "is inexpressible", "is beyond words", or "defies description" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

It's appropriate when describing emotions, experiences, or concepts that are so profound or complex that they resist simple articulation. Avoid using it in situations where more straightforward language would suffice.

Is "cannot be expressed" formal or informal?

The phrase "cannot be expressed" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is often found in more reflective or descriptive writing.