cannot do enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot do enough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a feeling of inadequacy in one's efforts or actions, often in the context of trying to help or support someone. Example: "I feel like I cannot do enough to support my friend during this difficult time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He simply cannot do enough.

The New York Times

Personal choices, no matter how virtuous, cannot do enough.

The New Yorker

But the law by itself cannot do enough to disarm the Internet's trolls.

The New York Times

Most Democratic candidates cannot do enough to distance themselves from President Clinton.

The New York Times

In all honesty you cannot do enough research and homework before you start.

The Guardian

For some people in these anxious suburbs, it seems, the police cannot do enough.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Today the copious carbon dioxide emitted to the atmosphere is left for nature to pick up, which it cannot do fast enough.

The Economist

You cannot do well enough if you have a weak foundation.

WikiHow

Hammering Ed Miliband for his uneasiness and raising alarm at the spectre of a dweeb who you would bully in school representing the UK against Vladimir Putin cannot be done enough.

Vice

Reminding voters that the only alternative to David Cameron in Number 10 is Ed Miliband should make Cameron's advantage in leadership ratings matter come the May 7. Hammering Ed Miliband for his uneasiness and raising alarm at the specter of a dweeb who you would bully in school representing the UK against Vladimir Putin cannot be done enough.

Vice

Did anyone do enough?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot do enough", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is insufficient. Be specific about the action or effort that falls short.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot do enough" in overly general statements without specifying what action or effort is insufficient. Always provide a clear reference to what needs improvement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot do enough" functions as a qualifier, expressing that actions or efforts are insufficient to achieve a desired outcome. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a grammatically sound way to convey inadequacy. For example, from Ludwig, the phrase is often used when suggesting that the actions taken are still falling short of the optimal level.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot do enough" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey a feeling of inadequacy or the need for more effort, as supported by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in contexts such as News & Media and Science, it serves to express that current efforts are insufficient. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what action or effort is lacking. Alternatives include "unable to do sufficient" or "fall short of what's needed". By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and common usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate "cannot do enough" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unable to do sufficient

Emphasizes a lack of ability to provide an adequate amount.

can't provide adequately

Highlights the failure to offer an adequate level of support or assistance.

fall short of what's needed

Focuses on the failure to meet the required standard or expectation.

fail to measure up

Indicates a deficiency in meeting a specific requirement or goal.

not able to satisfy the demand

Highlights the inability to satisfy a request or need.

can't meet the expectations

Highlights the failure to satisfy a request or need.

unable to fulfill adequately

Emphasizes a lack of capacity to deliver effectively.

inadequate to the task

Highlights a lack of suitability or ability to handle a specific task.

insufficient to the purpose

Focuses on the inadequacy of resources or actions to achieve a specific goal.

limited in what can be achieved

Highlights restrictions and constraints on outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot do enough" in a sentence?

Use "cannot do enough" to express that efforts or actions are inadequate to achieve a desired outcome. For example, "We "cannot do enough" to protect our families from the effects of harmful chemicals".

What can I say instead of "cannot do enough"?

You can use alternatives like "unable to do sufficient", "fall short of what's needed", or "inadequate to the task" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "can't do enough" instead of "cannot do enough"?

Yes, "can't do enough" is a common contraction of "cannot do enough" and is perfectly acceptable in informal contexts. Both phrases convey the same meaning.

In what situations is "cannot do enough" most appropriate?

"Cannot do enough" is appropriate when expressing a sense of inadequacy or the need for more effort in a particular situation, especially when discussing protection, support, or improvement.