cannot be permitted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be permitted" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express that something is not allowed or is prohibited in a certain context. Example: "In this organization, any form of harassment cannot be permitted under any circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

For Kant human beings cannot be permitted to pursue their inclinations which are to be viewed as subjective desires.

SEP

It cannot be permitted to materialize.

The Washington Post

It is an outrage that cannot be permitted to continue".

The New York Times

That bias cannot be permitted to interfere with evaluations that should be based on scholarly merit rather than gender.

Equitable Solutions for Retaining a Robust STEM Workforce Beyond Best Practices

There is no practical reason that the Palestinians cannot be permitted dramatically more economic access and activity in this area.

The Washington Post

Teaching, like research, is inherently unpredictable; but such unpredictability cannot be permitted in a system grounded in efficient accountability.

The Guardian

"Moments of crisis and national anxiety, however legitimate, cannot be permitted to negate these constitutional principles," the brief said.

The New York Times

There shouldn't be any limitations on food, but things that can be used for terror cannot be permitted.

The New York Times - Magazine

See id., at 332 ("The whole cycle of federal state conflict cannot be permitted to begin again").

Cornell University

Things cannot be permitted to reach the point where inmates of concentration camps and Jews become articles in demand.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Chy cannot a Christian be permitted to go to church to worship his God without being assaulted by a barrage from the pulpit".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be permitted", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what authority is doing the prohibiting. This adds clarity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "cannot be permitted" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "isn't allowed" or "can't be allowed" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be permitted" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating that an action or situation is disallowed or prohibited. Ludwig AI shows its prevalent use across diverse contexts to express disapproval or restriction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be permitted" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to convey that something is not allowed or authorized. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, spanning from news and media to academic and scientific writing. While versatile, it tends to lean towards a neutral-to-formal register, indicating it is more suited for situations where a clear and somewhat authoritative prohibition is intended. When a less formal tone is desired, simpler alternatives such as "isn't allowed" or "can't be allowed" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

must not be allowed

Emphasizes obligation and prohibition, differing in its stronger tone.

is not allowed

A simpler, more direct way of expressing prohibition with less formality.

is forbidden

Implies a more formal or authoritative prohibition.

is prohibited

A formal and legalistic way of saying something is not allowed, often used in official contexts.

is unacceptable

Focuses on the idea that something does not meet standards or expectations.

is inadmissible

Suggests that something cannot be considered or accepted, especially in legal or formal contexts.

is out of the question

Indicates that something is completely impossible or unacceptable.

is ruled out

Implies a decision has been made to exclude or reject something.

is not an option

Highlights that something is not a viable choice or possibility.

is precluded

Suggests that something is prevented or made impossible, often by a prior condition or action.

FAQs

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

You can use "cannot be permitted" to express that something is not allowed or authorized. For example, "Such behavior "cannot be permitted" in the workplace."

What are some alternatives to "cannot be permitted"?

Alternatives include "must not be allowed", "is forbidden", or "is prohibited", depending on the level of formality you want to convey.

Which is correct, "cannot be permitted" or "can't be permitted"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "cannot be permitted" is more formal. "Can't be permitted" is a contraction and more suitable for informal contexts.

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

"Cannot be permitted" implies a strict prohibition, while "should not be permitted" suggests a recommendation against something, but with less force. The first states its forbidden, while the second recommends an option.