cannot be persuaded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be persuaded" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone is firm in their beliefs or decisions and cannot be convinced to change their mind. Example: "Despite numerous arguments, she cannot be persuaded to support the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

A lack of safeguards for companies means that they cannot be persuaded to invest there.

The Economist

Carmakers and microchip companies that have set up elsewhere in Kyushu cannot be persuaded to come.

The Economist

Mr Kimura cannot be persuaded to dissociate himself entirely from such thugs.

The Economist

But if your partner cannot be persuaded, tell your boss: "I'm really looking forward to our dinner.

The New York Times

If Iran's leaders cannot be persuaded any other way, perhaps they can be embarrassed out of their bomb plans.

The Economist

Supposing the justice cannot be persuaded to resign, having him removed will take a two-thirds majority in parliament, which could be used to force an impeachment motion.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

An electorate that has savoured the rich experience of ousting an incumbent by the mere act of voting cannot easily be persuaded to forget it.

BBC

If people cannot persuade or be persuaded then there can be no shared beliefs, co-ordinated collective action or intellectual evolution.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is hard to convince prosecutors that such cases have any chance of success; and, even if the lawyers can be persuaded, juries often cannot.

The Economist

If, on the other hand, I cannot broadly imagine what it feels like to be you and to see the world as you see it (I do not identify with you), then when I listen to you, I will be subconsciously asking, "must I believe you?"... and I will only be persuaded if I cannot find any fault with your position at all -- which is never the case if I didn't already start by agreeing with you.

Huffington Post

Independents could be persuaded.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot be persuaded" when you want to emphasize the firmness of someone's stance. For example, "He cannot be persuaded to change his mind, despite the overwhelming evidence."

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be persuaded" when a milder expression is more appropriate. If there's still a slight chance of changing someone's mind, opt for phrases like "difficult to persuade" or "unlikely to be persuaded".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be persuaded" functions as a passive construction indicating an inability or unwillingness to be influenced. Ludwig AI shows the phrase is often used to describe a fixed stance or an unchangeable decision.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be persuaded" is a grammatically correct phrase used to convey the idea that someone is firm in their beliefs or decisions and resistant to influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources. While "cannot be persuaded" is a good choice to emphasize an unyielding stance, remember to consider milder alternatives when appropriate. Be aware that, while the phrase is considered valid, it's important to consider all the alternatives and choose the most fitting one. Also, be mindful of the context to ensure the appropriate level of emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unwilling to be convinced

Focuses on the unwillingness to change one's mind, emphasizing a lack of openness.

resistant to influence

Highlights the opposition to external pressures or suggestions.

steadfast in belief

Emphasizes the strength and unwavering nature of one's convictions.

adamant about

Indicates a firm and unyielding stance on a particular issue.

unshakable in their view

Suggests a deeply rooted and stable perspective that is unlikely to change.

closed to suggestion

Implies a refusal to consider alternative ideas or advice.

impervious to reason

Highlights an inability to be swayed by logical arguments.

set in their ways

Indicates a resistance to change due to established habits and preferences.

unamenable to advice

Emphasizes the refusal of external guidance or recommendations.

fixed in their opinion

Focuses on holding a firm and unwavering judgment or assessment.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "cannot be persuaded"?

Alternatives include "unwilling to be convinced", "resistant to influence", or "steadfast in belief", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "cannot be persuaded" formal or informal?

The phrase "cannot be persuaded" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, as demonstrated by its presence in sources like The Economist and The New York Times.

What does it mean when someone "cannot be persuaded"?

It means the person is firm in their decision or belief and is unlikely to change their mind, regardless of arguments or evidence presented.

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

Use "cannot be persuaded" when you want to emphasize the unyielding nature of someone's position. Be mindful of the context; a milder phrase might be more suitable if there's still a possibility of influence.