cannot be taken away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be taken away" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something is permanent or cannot be removed or lost. Example: "Her right to free speech is a fundamental principle that cannot be taken away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This hope cannot be taken away.

The New York Times

Those cannot be taken away.

The Guardian - Opinion

It cannot be taken away". Information: galichnik.mk/GalichnikJ/.mk/GalichnikJ/

The New York Times - Travel

But Achilles cannot be taken away from that fatal war.

The New York Times - Books

It states clearly that citizenship by birth cannot be taken away.

The New York Times

Both refer to rights that cannot be taken away or transferred.

The Washington Post

It is well established that pension benefits, once granted cannot be taken away.

The Guardian - Business

Unique technology means you have a right that cannot be taken away or commoditized.

The New York Times

The law of occupation is rooted in the notion that sovereignty cannot be taken away through force.

The New York Times

But it matters not, for what counts is the music, and what is done cannot be taken away.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It is this spiritual freedom--which cannot be taken away--that makes life meaningful and purposeful".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the permanence of rights or principles, use "cannot be taken away" to underscore their fundamental and protected nature. For example, "The right to free speech is a cornerstone of democracy and "cannot be taken away"."

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be taken away" when describing situations that are inherently temporary or subject to change. For instance, saying "The joy of winning "cannot be taken away"" might be an overstatement, as emotions can fade or be overshadowed by future events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be taken away" functions as a modal passive construction, expressing the impossibility of something being removed or lost. It is commonly used to emphasize the permanence or inalienability of rights, qualities, or possessions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be taken away" is a versatile and frequently used expression that emphasizes the permanence or inalienability of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and finds application across various domains, including news, academia, and law. Its primary function is to assert the enduring nature of rights, qualities, or possessions, offering reassurance and reinforcing their fundamental importance. While adaptable to various registers, it is crucial to avoid misusing it in transient contexts. Alternatives such as "cannot be forfeited" or "cannot be rescinded" can offer more precise nuances depending on the intended meaning. Overall, "cannot be taken away" is a powerful tool for conveying stability and unwavering commitment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be forfeited

Emphasizes the inability to lose something due to a rule or consequence.

cannot be rescinded

Implies that a decision or law cannot be officially canceled or revoked.

cannot be relinquished

Highlights the impossibility of voluntarily giving something up.

cannot be repealed

Specifically refers to the inability to abolish a law or statute.

cannot be violated

Focuses on the inviolable nature of a rule, agreement, or principle.

cannot be surrendered

Focuses on the inability to yield or give in regarding something.

cannot be infringed

Emphasizes that a right or boundary cannot be violated.

cannot be negated

Stresses that something's effect or existence cannot be nullified.

cannot be compromised

Indicates that something cannot be put at risk or settled by concession.

cannot be undermined

Highlights the impossibility of weakening or damaging something gradually.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be taken away" in a sentence?

Use "cannot be taken away" to emphasize the permanence of a right, attribute, or quality. For example, "Citizenship is a right that "cannot be taken away" easily."

What are some alternatives to "cannot be taken away"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot be removed", "cannot be revoked", or "is inalienable" depending on the specific context.

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

Both phrases are correct; "can't be taken away" is simply a contraction of "cannot be taken away" and is more informal.

What's the difference between "cannot be taken away" and "cannot be given away"?

"Cannot be taken away" means something cannot be removed or lost, while "cannot be given away" means something cannot be voluntarily transferred to another person. They emphasize different types of restrictions.