cannot be undertaken

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be undertaken" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a certain action or task is not possible to carry out. Example: "Due to the lack of resources, the project cannot be undertaken at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Unfortunately, this exercise cannot be undertaken in an emotional vacuum.

The Guardian - Business

"The Euro Summit stresses that nominal haircuts on the debt cannot be undertaken," the statement continues.

The New Yorker

"Certain transactions cannot be undertaken" without his approval, the company said.

The Washington Post

But it does mean that altering or razing a registered historic landmark cannot be undertaken as a matter of right.

The Washington Post

Those cases condemned general exploratory searches, which cannot be undertaken by officers with or without a warrant.

Cornell University

cannot be undertaken by officers with or without a warrant.' Id., at 62, 70 S.Ct., at 434.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Solutions to these issues are widely known, but – frustratingly – cannot easily be undertaken.

The Guardian

Their translation into precise details is a matter which cannot now be undertaken.

The Economist

Due to logistic and financial constraints, such studies cannot easily be undertaken.

Human Reproduction

Validation of qualitative content analysis can be achieved through using software packages [ 39]; in this case we used two software packages i.e. XSight version 2 (trial version) and NVivo version 8 (http://www.qsrinternational.com) to analyse the data because qualitative data analysis cannot easily be undertaken using single piece of software [ 38].

BMC Health Services Research

Educators cannot avoid the question: what kind of remedial measures should be undertaken?

Measurement

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be undertaken", ensure the subject performing the action is clearly defined. For example, specify who or what is unable to undertake the action for clarity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "cannot be undertaken" is formal. Avoid using it in casual conversation; opt for simpler alternatives like "can't be done" or "isn't possible" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be undertaken" functions as a passive construction expressing that a particular action or task is not possible or permissible. It is commonly used to indicate limitations or constraints that prevent something from being carried out, as shown in examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

28%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot be undertaken" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express the impossibility or infeasibility of performing a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for written English and is commonly found in formal contexts like scientific and academic writing, but can also be found in news media. While versatile, it’s best to avoid it in informal settings where simpler alternatives would be more appropriate. Remember to clearly identify who or what cannot undertake the action. The phrase's high frequency and authoritative sources indicate its widespread acceptance and proper usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not possible

States a direct impossibility, often due to constraints or limitations.

is not an option

Suggests that an action is not a permissible or available choice.

is not feasible

Emphasizes the impracticality or lack of viability of an action.

is not permitted

States that an action is officially disallowed or prohibited.

is not viable

Highlights the lack of sustainability or long-term success for a given action.

is not achievable

Focuses on the inability to reach a desired outcome or goal.

is out of the question

Indicates a firm rejection or absolute impossibility.

is not within our capabilities

Highlights the limitations of resources, skills, or expertise.

is beyond the realm of possibility

Expresses an extreme level of improbability or impossibility.

lies outside the scope

Indicates that something is not included within defined parameters or limitations.

FAQs

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

Use "cannot be undertaken" to express that a particular action or task is impossible or not feasible to carry out. For example, "Due to budget constraints, the project "cannot be undertaken" this year".

What are some alternatives to "cannot be undertaken"?

Some alternatives include "is not feasible", "is not possible", or "is not viable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. For example, "is not feasible" emphasizes practicality, while "is not possible" states a direct impossibility.

Is it ever incorrect to use "cannot be undertaken"?

While grammatically correct, "cannot be undertaken" is quite formal and might sound unnatural in very informal contexts. Consider using simpler alternatives like "can't be done" or "isn't possible" in casual settings.

What is the difference between "cannot be undertaken" and "should not be undertaken"?

"Cannot be undertaken" indicates an impossibility, while "should not be undertaken" suggests that an action is inadvisable or inappropriate, even if it is technically possible. The first refers to the limits in possibility while the second highlights limitations based on suggestion.