cannot dismiss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot dismiss" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something cannot be disregarded or overlooked. Example: "In this debate, we cannot dismiss the importance of evidence-based arguments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Therefore, we cannot dismiss them out of hand.

The New York Times

He did not elect me, so he cannot dismiss me".

The New York Times

In other words, players cannot dismiss what Groh says.

The New York Times - Sports

Under the law, employers cannot dismiss or discriminate against employees because they are receiving subsidies.

The New York Times - Health

But they may reconsider if the information comes from a source they cannot dismiss.

The New York Times

You cannot dismiss his records, and their startling internal contradictions, as easily as that.

The Guardian - Sport

The Senate has little power in the ordinary legislative process and cannot dismiss governments.

The New York Times

For, amazingly, one cannot dismiss Wagner just because he was a repulsive, and indeed dangerous man.

The Guardian - Books

You cannot dismiss the gains New York City students have made on students elsewhere.

The New York Times

"We cannot dismiss perception as being a terribly important issue for the industry," Mr. Levitt said.

The New York Times

We cannot dismiss any part of the triangle — victims, traffickers and buyers — and expect to address the problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot dismiss" to introduce a counterargument or alternative perspective that requires consideration, even if you ultimately disagree with it. This shows balanced reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot dismiss" for trivial matters or points that have little relevance. Using it in such cases can dilute its impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot dismiss" functions as a modal verb phrase used to express a strong recommendation or necessity to consider something. As Ludwig AI states, it indicates that something should not be disregarded or overlooked. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in contexts where ignoring certain information or possibilities would be inappropriate.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot dismiss" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that emphasizes the necessity of considering a particular point or fact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It is most commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While similar phrases like "cannot ignore" or "should not overlook" can be used as alternatives, "cannot dismiss" carries a slightly stronger connotation of actively setting aside or rejecting something if it is not adequately considered. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring that the point you are emphasizing truly warrants such attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot disregard

A direct synonym, implying that something is too important to be ignored.

cannot ignore

Similar in meaning but more general, indicating that something cannot be paid no attention to.

must not disregard

Emphasizes an obligation not to ignore something, carrying a stronger sense of duty.

should not overlook

Suggests that something deserves attention and should not be missed.

must consider

Highlights the necessity of taking something into account.

cannot downplay

Indicates that the importance of something should not be minimized.

should acknowledge

Focuses on recognizing the importance or validity of something.

cannot underestimate

Emphasizes that something is more significant than it might appear.

cannot take lightly

Suggests that something needs to be treated seriously.

must give credence to

Implies that something deserves to be believed or taken seriously.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot dismiss" in a sentence?

Use "cannot dismiss" to emphasize the importance of considering a particular fact, argument, or possibility. For example, "We "cannot dismiss" the potential environmental impact of the project."

What are some alternatives to "cannot dismiss"?

Alternatives include "cannot ignore", "should not overlook", or "must consider", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "cannot dismiss" or "should not dismiss"?

"Cannot dismiss" indicates a stronger sense of obligation or necessity, while "should not dismiss" suggests a recommendation. Choose the phrase that best reflects the degree of importance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "cannot dismiss" and "cannot disregard"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable. However, "cannot dismiss" often implies a more active rejection or setting aside, whereas "cannot disregard" suggests a failure to pay attention to something.