cannot do so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot do so" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating an inability to perform a specific action or task. Example: "I would help you with the project, but unfortunately, I cannot do so due to prior commitments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But they cannot  do so.

Independent

But I cannot do so.

The Washington Post

Tragically, some cannot do so.

The New York Times

But they cannot do so alone.

The Economist

But it cannot do so indefinitely.

The New Yorker

Having done so once, he cannot do so again.

The Economist

But Europe cannot do so as a whole.

The New York Times

"A person who is eating alone cannot do so casually.

The New Yorker

But they say they cannot do so for security reasons.

The New York Times

It cannot do so indefinitely, and Merkel knows it.

The Washington Post

Mr. Arafat seems to feel he cannot do so.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider alternatives like "unable to do that" or "not able to do so" for a slightly more formal tone.

Common error

While "cannot do so" is grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound overly formal or stiff, especially in casual communication. In informal settings, opt for simpler phrases like "can't" or "can't do that" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot do so" functions as a negative polarity item indicating the inability to perform a previously mentioned action. It serves to deny possibility or capacity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

24%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot do so" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate the inability to perform a previously mentioned action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and suitable for written English. While commonly found in news and media, it also appears in scientific, academic, and formal business contexts. When using "cannot do so", consider the level of formality required by your audience and opt for simpler alternatives such as "unable to do that" or "not able to do so" in informal settings. Avoid overuse to prevent your writing from sounding overly formal or stiff. Ultimately, this phrase offers a concise and effective way to convey limitations and restrictions in a wide range of writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unable to do that

Replaces "cannot" with "unable", resulting in a slightly more formal tone.

not able to do so

Similar to "unable to do that", it uses a more explicit construction of inability.

incapable of doing so

Emphasizes a lack of capability rather than a simple inability.

cannot achieve that

Focuses on the impossibility of reaching a specific outcome or goal.

it is not possible

States the impossibility directly and generally, without referring to a specific actor.

I'm prevented from doing that

Highlights an external force that causes the inability.

it's unfeasible

Highlights the impracticality or unworkability of a certain action or plan.

that's just not feasible

Emphasizes the impracticality of the scenario.

that is not an option

Indicates that something is not available or permissible as a course of action.

it is out of the question

Expresses strong disapproval or rejection of a proposed action or idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "cannot do so" to replace a verb or phrase that you've already mentioned. For example, "I'd like to help, but I cannot do so because I'm busy."

What are some alternatives to "cannot do so"?

Some alternatives include "unable to do that", "not able to do so", or "incapable of doing so". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "cannot do so" formal or informal?

"Cannot do so" is generally considered more formal. In informal situations, using "can't" or a simpler phrase might be more appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use "cannot do so"?

It's appropriate to use "cannot do so" in formal writing, professional communications, and when you want to avoid repeating a verb phrase. It's also useful when clarity and precision are important.