cannot be illuminated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be illuminated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something cannot be made clear, understood, or visible, often metaphorically. Example: "Despite our efforts, the underlying issues of the project cannot be illuminated without further investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

So, after the time, instead of, the shadow occurs because the downslope part of the roof cannot be illuminated.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

The reasons underlying the program's failure to demonstrate any further effect cannot be illuminated by a randomised controlled design.

BMC Medical Education

Instead we must realize each data source has its shortcomings, many of which cannot be illuminated except in the context of other data.

Biology Direct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Anything that could be illuminated was.

The Economist

Emergency fire exits must be illuminated.

The New York Times

The reason remains to be illuminated.

Plosone

It can be illuminating.

The New Yorker

It could also be illuminating.

The New Yorker

This can be illuminating.

The New York Times - Arts

But the results can be illuminating.

The New York Times

It wouldn't be illuminating.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot be illuminated" when you want to express that something is fundamentally unclear or impossible to make visible, either literally or metaphorically. It often suggests a deeper, perhaps irresolvable, lack of understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be illuminated" in situations where a simpler phrase like "cannot be seen" or "is unclear" would suffice. The phrase carries a certain weight and is best reserved for more complex or abstract concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be illuminated" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating an impossibility or inability. It suggests that something is fundamentally resistant to being clarified or understood. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be illuminated" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express that something is impossible to clarify or understand. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for written English. It is most frequently found in scientific and academic contexts, suggesting a formal register. While not a common phrase, it serves a specific purpose when a strong emphasis on the impossibility of clarification is needed. Alternatives such as "cannot be clarified" or "cannot be understood" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be clarified

Focuses specifically on the lack of clarity.

cannot be clarified

Highlights that the issue can't be clarified.

cannot be understood

Emphasizes the impossibility of comprehension.

cannot be made clear

Stresses the inability to make something understandable.

remains obscure

Highlights the continuing lack of clarity.

cannot be revealed

Suggests that something is hidden and unable to be uncovered.

cannot be brought to light

Emphasizes the inability to uncover or expose something.

cannot be ascertained

Focuses on the impossibility of finding something out for certain.

remains unexplained

Emphasizes the continuing lack of explanation.

cannot be deciphered

Suggests that something is encoded or difficult to interpret.

FAQs

What does "cannot be illuminated" mean?

The phrase "cannot be illuminated" means that something cannot be made clear, understood, or visible. It often implies a fundamental lack of clarity or an inherent obscurity.

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

It is appropriate to use "cannot be illuminated" when you want to emphasize that something is fundamentally unclear or impossible to clarify. Consider using alternatives like "cannot be clarified" or "cannot be understood".

Is "cannot be illuminated" formal or informal?

The phrase "cannot be illuminated" leans towards a more formal register. It's suitable for academic, scientific, or professional writing. In informal contexts, simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

Are there synonyms for "cannot be illuminated"?

Yes, synonyms include "cannot be made clear", "remains obscure", or "cannot be revealed". The best choice depends on the specific context.