cannot be propelled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be propelled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing movement, force, or the inability to be driven forward, such as in physics or engineering. Example: "Due to the lack of fuel, the rocket cannot be propelled into space."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The impact on the American way of life would be profound: cars cannot be propelled by roof-borne windmills.

The New York Times

This is essentially the same mild-hybrid system used in the Insight; unlike the Prius, which has a more capable full-hybrid powertrain, the CR-Z cannot be propelled by its electric motor alone.

The New York Times

In addition, as a result of prolongation of the inactivity period of MMC Phases I and IV and the significant shortening of MMC Phase III, the intensive stomach contractions become weakened, and the stomach contents cannot be propelled to the duodenum in the absence of a powerful drive.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Unlike most train cars currently used by the railroad, bilevel coaches cannot run by themselves; they have no motors and must be propelled by a locomotive.

The New York Times

Domestication and engineering application should be propelled sustainably.

Urban Rail Transit

Only one rider can be propelled towards the summit.

BBC

Is there an argument that such topics should be propelled up the research agenda?

Critical Care

As a result, the ions need to be propelled through the ion guide.

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

In heterogeneously ventilated lungs, fluid transfer may be propelled toward regions of normal compliance.

Annals of Intensive Care

They cannot swim, but are propelled by winds and the sea's currents.

The Guardian

But while Benjamin's angel is propelled involuntarily into the future and thus cannot pause to unearth these sedimentary strata of past-ness, we have the option of slowing down and attempting to make sense of it all.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be propelled", ensure the context clearly indicates what is lacking the necessary force or mechanism to move forward. For instance, specify the object and the reason for its immobility.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be propelled" in overly abstract or metaphorical contexts where a more direct synonym like "cannot be advanced" or "cannot be achieved" would be clearer.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be propelled" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the inability of something to be moved or driven forward by an external force or mechanism. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound. Examples show it used in both literal and slightly more abstract contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be propelled" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that expresses the inability of something to be moved forward. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is sound and appears in various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While not extremely frequent, the phrase is valuable for precisely describing situations where propulsion is impossible. Consider the context and choose synonyms carefully, such as "cannot be moved forward" or "cannot be driven", to best convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be moved forward

Focuses on the lack of ability to advance physically.

cannot be driven

Emphasizes the lack of a driving force or mechanism.

cannot be impelled

Highlights the absence of a motivating force.

cannot be advanced

Highlights the inability to progress or improve.

cannot be activated

Focuses on the lack of ability to trigger or start something.

cannot be launched

Focuses on the inability to start or initiate movement.

cannot be spurred

Highlights the absence of incentive for movement.

cannot be set in motion

Emphasizes the lack of initial force to start movement.

cannot be forced ahead

Emphasizes the inability to push something forward.

cannot gain momentum

Focuses on the inability to build up speed or power.

FAQs

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

Use "cannot be propelled" to describe something that lacks the necessary force or mechanism to move forward. For example: "Without fuel, the rocket "cannot be propelled" into space".

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

You can use alternatives like "cannot be moved forward", "cannot be driven", or "cannot be advanced" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "cannot be propelled" or "cannot propel"?

"Cannot propel" describes the inability to cause something to move forward, while "cannot be propelled" describes the inability of something to be moved forward by an external force. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "cannot be propelled" and "cannot be pushed"?

"Cannot be pushed" implies a resistance to force, whereas "cannot be propelled" suggests a lack of the means or mechanism for forward motion. "Cannot be pushed" emphasizes external force, while "cannot be propelled" focuses on the absence of an internal or intended method of propulsion.