cannot be left

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be left" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something must remain or cannot be abandoned or omitted in a particular context. Example: "The final decision cannot be left to chance; we need a solid plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Such conduct cannot be left unchallenged".

The New York Times

Japan cannot be left out.

The Washington Post

Yet the matter cannot be left there.

The New York Times

Children cannot be left alone like before.

The Guardian

"This cannot be left like this".

The Guardian

It cannot be left to fate".

The New York Times

"Italy cannot be left ungoverned," he said.

The Guardian

The situation cannot be left to drift.

The New York Times

Reforming a profession cannot be left to the professionals.

Columbia University

But this task cannot be left to the Russians alone.

The Guardian

Red-wine fans cannot be left in the cold.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be left", ensure the context clearly indicates what should not be abandoned or ignored. For instance, "The investigation cannot be left unfinished" clarifies that the investigation must be completed.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be left" without specifying what the subject is. For example, instead of saying "This cannot be left", specify "This issue cannot be left unresolved" to provide clarity and context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be left" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing necessity or obligation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates something must not be abandoned, ignored, or omitted. The examples provided illustrate this function across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot be left" is a versatile and widely used expression that emphasizes the necessity of addressing or maintaining something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. With a strong presence in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings, "cannot be left" serves to underscore the importance of preventing neglect or abandonment. To enhance clarity, specify the subject. For similar meanings, consider alternatives like "must not be abandoned" or "should not be overlooked". By understanding its function and usage, writers can effectively convey the urgency and significance of a particular matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

must not be abandoned

Emphasizes the necessity of continued support or attention; highlights the consequence of abandonment.

must not be ignored

Focuses on the importance of acknowledging and addressing something that requires attention.

must not be omitted

Highlights the necessity of including something essential; emphasizes completeness.

should not be disregarded

Indicates that something warrants consideration and should not be dismissed lightly.

should not be overlooked

Emphasizes the potential negative consequences of failing to notice something important.

must be attended to

Stresses the need for immediate action and care.

cannot be neglected

Highlights the responsibility of maintaining something that needs attention and care.

demands attention

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of addressing a particular matter.

requires consideration

Implies that something is worthy of thoughtful evaluation and analysis.

warrants action

Indicates that a situation justifies taking specific steps to address it.

FAQs

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

Use "cannot be left" to emphasize that something must not be abandoned, ignored, or omitted. For example, "The details "cannot be left out" of the report" indicates that the details are essential and must be included.

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

You can use alternatives like "must not be abandoned", "must not be ignored", or "must not be omitted", depending on the specific context and intended meaning.

Which is correct: "cannot be left" or "can't be left"?

"Cannot be left" and "can't be left" are both grammatically correct and have the same meaning. "Can't be left" is a contraction and is more informal, while "cannot be left" is more formal.

What's the difference between "cannot be left" and "should not be left"?

"Cannot be left" implies a stronger necessity than "should not be left". "Cannot be left" suggests that there will be significant negative consequences if something is abandoned or ignored, while "should not be left" indicates a recommendation against abandoning something.