cannot be redistributed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be redistributed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to specify that something, such as a document or software, is not allowed to be shared or distributed again. Example: "This software is licensed for personal use only and cannot be redistributed without permission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The new software is one of several products that aim to ensure both that what media companies sell online cannot be redistributed free by whoever buys it and that media companies can accurately track the rights of artists who expect to be compensated for online sales.

The New York Times

However, some funding that goes to the PSNI for anti-terror activities cannot be redistributed across other areas.

BBC

Alice therefore endows the program with the following sentence: "This software is meant to be used exclusively by Bob and cannot be redistributed".

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This tax revenue will be redistributed in the form of government programmes, and I cannot shake the nagging feeling that this progressive redistribution will involve "spreading" the wealth.

The Guardian - Opinion

Can medals be redistributed?

Independent

"It needs to be redistributed".

The New York Times

Or surplus stock could be redistributed.

The Guardian

Uncultivated land was to be redistributed among landless peasants.

The New York Times

Fitzgibbon said the money should be redistributed to dairy farmers.

The Guardian

"They'll just be redistributed to less competitive campuses".

The New York Times

Officials have not said how the $3 billion will be redistributed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be redistributed", clearly state who or what is restricted from redistributing and what the consequences are for violating the restriction.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be redistributed" without specifying the scope of the restriction. Clearly define what constitutes redistribution and who is bound by this rule. For example, instead of saying "This content cannot be redistributed", specify "This content cannot be redistributed without explicit written permission from the copyright holder".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be redistributed" functions as a restrictive modifier in a sentence. It indicates that something is subject to limitations regarding its distribution. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct, and it serves to impose a prohibition.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot be redistributed" is a grammatically correct expression used to impose restrictions on sharing or disseminating something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase primarily appears in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. Though its frequency is relatively rare, it carries a significant legal and professional weight, signaling potential consequences for unauthorized sharing. For less formal contexts, alternative phrases like "can't be shared" or "not for sharing" may be more appropriate. When using this phrase, ensure the scope of the restriction is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may not be shared

Replaces "redistributed" with a more general term "shared", softening the restriction slightly.

is restricted from further distribution

Explicitly states that further distribution is not allowed.

is not allowed to be copied

Focuses on copying as the prohibited action, useful when the concern is duplication.

must not be disseminated

Uses a more formal term, "disseminated", implying a wider distribution is restricted.

is prohibited from being resold

Specifies resale as the forbidden activity, suitable for commercial contexts.

is not authorized for reuse

Emphasizes that using the item again is not permitted.

is not for public release

Highlights the restriction on making something publicly available.

is not transferable

Indicates that the item cannot be passed on to someone else.

is intended for single use only

Limits the item to a single instance of usage, preventing redistribution.

is exclusively for personal use

Specifies that the item is only for personal use and not for any other purpose including redistribution.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "cannot be redistributed" for a less formal context?

In less formal situations, you can use phrases like "can't be shared", "not for sharing", or "keep it to yourself" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "cannot be redistributed" or "may not be redistributed"?

"Cannot be redistributed" indicates a stronger prohibition than "may not be redistributed". "Cannot" implies an inability or absolute restriction, while "may not" suggests that redistribution is not permitted but potentially allowed under specific circumstances. The choice depends on the level of restriction you want to express.

What is the legal implication of using the phrase "cannot be redistributed"?

Using "cannot be redistributed" often implies a legal restriction, such as copyright or licensing terms. It signals that unauthorized redistribution could lead to legal consequences. Ensure the restriction is clearly defined in accompanying terms and conditions.

What are some examples of items that "cannot be redistributed"?

Examples of items that "cannot be redistributed" include copyrighted software, licensed digital content (e.g., e-books, music), confidential documents, and proprietary data. The restriction typically aims to protect intellectual property rights and maintain control over distribution.