cannot be obtained

USAGE SUMMARY

"cannot be obtained" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when referring to something that cannot be achieved or acquired. For example, "The recipe's secret ingredients cannot be obtained anywhere else."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They cannot be obtained surgically or, if obtainable, only with extremely sophisticated craniofacial procedures.

Huffington Post

Thus the unique solution cannot be obtained.

Composite Structures

Such chemical contrast cannot be obtained with conventional micro-CT.

Nature

Unbiased wind measurements cannot be obtained without ice-free anemometers.

Measurement

Thus, the alloy cannot be obtained by solidification.

Journal of Alloys and Compounds

Such information cannot be obtained by conventional culture-dependent techniques.

Methods in Enzymology

The catch is that absolute proof of causality cannot be obtained.

The Guardian

"For public servants, we want responsibility and responsibility cannot be obtained without publicity.

The New Yorker

And what if there was no preparer or the returns cannot be obtained from that person?

The New York Times

If justice for civilian victims cannot be obtained through local authorities, then foreign governments must act.

The New York Times

Such results cannot be obtained using a CCOF.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be obtained", ensure the subject and context clearly define what is impossible to acquire or achieve. For example, "Accurate results cannot be obtained without precise measurements."

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be obtained" in overly complex sentences where simpler phrasing would improve clarity. Instead of "The desired outcome, given the current constraints and limitations, unfortunately, cannot be obtained", try "The desired outcome is unachievable given the current constraints."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be obtained" functions as a passive construction indicating the impossibility of acquiring or achieving something. As seen in Ludwig, it frequently modifies nouns representing information, results, or permission.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be obtained" is a versatile phrase used to express that something is impossible to achieve or acquire. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedic content. While it is generally considered neutral to formal, simpler alternatives can be used in less formal settings. The phrase's function is to clearly state a limitation or impossibility, and understanding its proper usage can enhance the precision and clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unattainable

Focuses on the impossibility of reaching or achieving something.

is not achievable

Emphasizes the lack of feasibility in accomplishing a goal or result.

cannot be acquired

Highlights the inability to gain possession of something.

is inaccessible

Focuses on the lack of access to something, either physically or metaphorically.

is out of reach

Suggests something is beyond one's grasp or capability.

is impossible to get

Directly states the impossibility of acquiring something.

cannot be secured

Emphasizes the inability to ensure or guarantee possession of something.

is beyond reach

Similar to "out of reach" but can imply a greater degree of difficulty.

is unprocurable

Highlights the inability to obtain something, often due to scarcity or legal restrictions.

is unachievable

Similar to "not achievable" but may suggest a higher degree of difficulty or impossibility.

FAQs

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

You can use "cannot be obtained" to describe something that is impossible to achieve or acquire. For example, "Absolute certainty "cannot be obtained" in scientific research" or "Without proper documentation, a loan "cannot be obtained"".

What are some alternatives to "cannot be obtained"?

Some alternatives to "cannot be obtained" include "is unattainable", "is not achievable", "is inaccessible", or "is out of reach". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "cannot be obtained" in writing?

"Cannot be obtained" is appropriate when you want to express that something is impossible to get or achieve. It's suitable for formal and informal contexts, but consider using simpler alternatives like "is unattainable" in less formal writing.

Is "cannot be obtained" formal or informal?

"Cannot be obtained" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It is appropriate for both academic and professional writing, as well as general news articles. Simpler alternatives like "is impossible to get" might be more suitable for informal contexts.