cannot be negotiated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be negotiated" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a particular term, condition, or aspect is fixed and not open to discussion or alteration. Example: "The deadline for the project is firm and cannot be negotiated, so please plan accordingly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"This cannot be negotiated.

The New Yorker

The chef says that this cannot be negotiated.

The New Yorker

The country's independence cannot be negotiated on these grounds.

The Guardian - Opinion

"That cannot be negotiated … These principles are the basis for everything the EU does," he said.

The Guardian

The catch is that the results of this presidential trip, unlike many others, cannot be negotiated in advance.

The New York Times

Yet the deal implicitly recognises that Iran will stay in the enrichment game.Not there yetBut those insisting that Iran must forswear any enrichment in the future are demanding something that almost certainly cannot be negotiated.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Mr Sharon, in an article in the New York Times on June 9th, rehearsed his own vague recipe for "a long-term interim agreement that sets aside for the future issues that cannot be bridged at present".Even an interim agreement, in Mr Sharon's view, cannot begin to be negotiated until the terror attacks stop.

The Economist

As an American of Indian descent who witnessed the attacks of 9/11 firsthand and the siege in Mumbai on TV, I cringe at the suggestion that these acts of terrorism against civilians should be regarded as evidence of a flawed political position rather than what they are — cowardly attacks by people who have a warped sense of what honor is and who cannot and should not be negotiated with.

The New York Times

Labour leader Ed Miliband said IS "cannot and should not be negotiated with".

BBC

They have to be negotiated and agreed by all Syrians; they cannot be fixed by unilateral measures".

Independent

This might be negotiated later.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be negotiated", ensure that the context clearly indicates what aspect is fixed and why. This avoids ambiguity and sets clear expectations.

Common error

Avoid applying "cannot be negotiated" too broadly. Overusing it can create a rigid and uncooperative impression. Reserve it for truly unchangeable aspects to maintain goodwill and flexibility where possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be negotiated" functions as a descriptor indicating that a particular term, condition, or aspect is fixed and not open to discussion or alteration. This is evident in Ludwig's examples where it's used to describe borders, principles, and even chef's decisions as unchangeable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot be negotiated" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies something is fixed and not open to alteration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to establish clear boundaries and expectations, particularly in news and media, scientific, and wiki contexts. While it conveys firmness, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid creating an overly rigid impression. Alternatives such as "is non-negotiable" or "is not up for discussion" offer similar meanings with potentially different tones. Understanding the nuances of "cannot be negotiated" and its alternatives allows for more effective and nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is non-negotiable

Direct synonym, replacing the passive voice with a more concise adjective phrase.

is not up for discussion

Indicates the topic is closed and further debate is unwelcome.

is set in stone

Figurative language suggesting immutability and finality.

is unalterable

Emphasizes the impossibility of making changes.

is a firm requirement

Focuses on the mandatory aspect of the condition or term.

is not subject to change

Highlights the fixed nature and lack of flexibility.

is a deal-breaker

Suggests that failing to meet this condition will end the agreement.

is compulsory

Highlights the mandatory nature of the condition or term.

is not flexible

Implies a lack of adaptability or willingness to compromise.

is unyielding

Conveys a sense of inflexibility and resistance to change.

FAQs

What does "cannot be negotiated" mean?

The phrase "cannot be negotiated" means something is fixed and not open to discussion or alteration. It implies a firm condition or requirement that must be accepted as is.

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

You can use alternatives like "is non-negotiable", "is not up for discussion", or "is set in stone" depending on the context.

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

It is appropriate to use "cannot be negotiated" when a specific term or condition is absolutely firm and unchangeable, such as a project deadline or a fundamental requirement.

Is "cannot be negotiated" too strong of a phrase to use in a professional setting?

While "cannot be negotiated" is direct, it's acceptable in professional settings when communicating firm requirements. However, consider softening it with explanations to avoid appearing overly rigid. Alternatives like "is a firm requirement" may be perceived as more collaborative.