cannot go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot go" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express an inability to proceed or move forward in a situation. Example: "I cannot go to the meeting today due to a prior commitment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This cannot go unpunished".

The New York Times

I cannot go".

The New York Times

You cannot go".

The New York Times

It cannot go on.

The Economist

"I cannot go home.

The Guardian - Sport

"We cannot go backwards.

The New Yorker

I cannot go out".

The New York Times

You cannot go any lower.

Independent

You cannot go into details.

Independent

It cannot go on indefinitely.

The New York Times

"Both cannot go together".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot go", ensure the context clearly indicates the reason for the inability, prohibition, or unsuitability. Providing context enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect verb forms after "cannot". The correct structure is "cannot" + base form of the verb. For example, use "cannot go" not "cannot going" or "cannot went".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot go" functions as a modal construction expressing inability, prohibition, or impossibility. This is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis, which identifies correct usage of the phrase in various contexts. It's used to negate the action of going, indicating a restriction or lack of opportunity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot go" is a versatile expression used to indicate an inability, prohibition, or impossibility of movement or action. As verified by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "is unable to proceed" or "is not permitted to go" offer more formal options, "cannot go" remains a common and acceptable choice. Pay attention to verb conjugation and context to ensure clarity. Whether it's expressing personal limitations or describing broader restrictions, understanding its nuances is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unable to proceed

Replaces "cannot" with a more formal "is unable" and "go" with "proceed".

is not allowed to go

Similar to "is not permitted", but slightly less formal.

is not permitted to go

Emphasizes a lack of permission rather than a lack of ability.

is incapable of going

Focuses on a lack of capability or capacity.

is restricted from going

Suggests a limitation or constraint on the action.

is forbidden from going

Highlights a prohibition against the action.

it's impossible to go

Emphasizes the impossibility of the action.

must not go

Conveys a stronger sense of obligation or prohibition.

is out of the question

Indicates that something is not a possible option.

is not feasible

Highlights the impracticality of going.

FAQs

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

The phrase "cannot go" expresses an inability or prohibition. For example: "I "cannot go" to the party because I have to work." or "You "cannot go" there; it's too dangerous."

What are some alternatives to "cannot go"?

Alternatives include "is unable to proceed", "is not permitted to go", "is forbidden from going", "must not go", or "is not allowed to go". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "cannot go" or "is unable to go"?

"Is unable to go" is generally more formal than "cannot go". "Cannot go" is suitable for most everyday situations, while "is unable to go" may be preferable in professional or academic contexts.

When should I use "must not go" instead of "cannot go"?

"Must not go" expresses a stronger sense of prohibition or obligation than "cannot go". Use "must not go" when conveying that something is absolutely forbidden or should not be done under any circumstances.