cannot be reconciled

USAGE SUMMARY

"cannot be reconciled" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when there is an irreconcilable difference between two entities. For example, "The differing opinions of the two sides of the argument cannot be reconciled".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Those two responsibilities, experts said, cannot be reconciled.

The New York Times

These are true-or-false statements that cannot be reconciled.

The Washington Post

That result cannot be reconciled with Geier v.

Cornell University

The two styles of policing cannot be reconciled.

The New York Times

These findings cannot be reconciled with explanation by interpretation.

The New York Times

Students need to know why science and religion cannot be reconciled.

The New York Times

Many Buddhist authorities say suicide cannot be reconciled with their religious tradition.

The New York Times

The majority's position in this case [p520] cannot be reconciled with that clear authorization of Congress.

Cornell University

The majority's interpretation of these provisions cannot be reconciled with their text or our precedents.

Cornell University

Many on both sides conclude that their different visions of society cannot be reconciled.

The Economist

But the resolution is a statement of intentions that, ultimately, cannot be reconciled.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be reconciled", clearly identify the entities that are in conflict. This will help avoid ambiguity and make your argument more persuasive.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be reconciled" when describing situations where differences are negotiable or resolvable through compromise. This phrase implies a fundamental, unbridgeable gap, not just a temporary disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be reconciled" functions as a descriptor, indicating that two or more concepts, ideas, or entities are fundamentally incompatible and incapable of being brought into agreement or harmony. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in various contexts, emphasizing irreconcilable differences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

32%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be reconciled" is a versatile phrase used to express the fundamental incompatibility between two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across various contexts, including news, academic, and scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the incompatibility is genuine and clearly identified to avoid misinterpretation. While there are semantically similar phrases like "are irreconcilable" and "are incompatible", they may carry slightly different connotations. Therefore, be mindful of the specific nuance you wish to convey when choosing an alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are irreconcilable

This alternative directly states that two or more things are impossible to bring into harmony or agreement.

cannot be harmonized

Focuses on the lack of ability to bring things into aesthetic or functional agreement.

are mutually exclusive

Emphasizes that the items cannot coexist or both be true.

are incompatible

Highlights a fundamental mismatch that prevents successful combination or interaction.

are at odds

Indicates conflict or disagreement, suggesting an inability to find common ground.

cannot be brought into agreement

This phrase is a more verbose way of saying things cannot be aligned.

cannot be made consistent

This suggests an internal contradiction that defies attempts to resolve it.

defy resolution

Focuses on the impossibility of finding a solution or answer.

are impossible to resolve

Highlights the impossibility of resolving or fixing a situation or disagreement.

present an irreconcilable conflict

Emphasizes the conflicting nature that prevents being brought together or made compatible.

FAQs

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

Use "cannot be reconciled" to indicate that two or more things are fundamentally opposed and incapable of being brought into harmony. For instance, "His political views "cannot be reconciled" with her staunch beliefs".

What are some alternatives to "cannot be reconciled"?

Instead of "cannot be reconciled", you could use phrases like "are irreconcilable", "are mutually exclusive", or "are incompatible" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "cannot be reconciled" in formal writing?

Yes, "cannot be reconciled" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and precise way to express fundamental disagreement or opposition. Ludwig shows that is mostly present in "formal contexts".

What's the difference between "cannot be reconciled" and "cannot be resolved"?

"Cannot be reconciled" implies a fundamental incompatibility that prevents agreement or harmony, while "cannot be resolved" suggests that a problem or dispute cannot be fixed or settled. While there may be overlapping context sometimes, resolution implies an action upon something that has a clear solution, even if difficult, whereas reconciliation implies a state of being that is incompatible. If in doubt, use "cannot be resolved".