have not managed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have not managed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone has not been able to achieve or accomplish something. Example: "Despite my best efforts, I have not managed to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

* * * "I have not managed to become intimate with anyone here.

The New Yorker

Unfortunately, recently I have not managed to do that.

Independent

But I have not managed to find a job yet.

The Guardian

We have not managed to replicate the communities we serve.

The Guardian

Most people, however, have not managed their brands until now.

The Guardian

"We have not managed to figure out the system".

The New York Times

Not entirely, but they have not managed well, either.

The New York Times

Others have not managed to adapt at all.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Those same four have not managed much better against Santana, going 4 for 20.

The New York Times - Sports

However, so far, recombinant antibodies have not managed to impose themselves as efficient alternatives to natural antibodies.

BMC Biotechnology

But of course, many countries have not managed to increase rates this cycle.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have not managed", ensure it's followed by a clear infinitive phrase explaining what someone failed to do. For example, "They have not managed to secure funding."

Common error

Avoid using "have not managed" when a simpler past tense like "did not manage" is more appropriate for completed actions in the past. "Have not managed" is best used for situations continuing to the present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have not managed" functions as a negative expression of ability or accomplishment. It indicates a lack of success in achieving a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have not managed" is a versatile phrase indicating a lack of success or inability to achieve a goal, with Ludwig AI confirming its frequent appearance in various contexts. Grammatically sound and widely accepted, it is most commonly found in news and media. When writing, ensure clarity by following it with a specific infinitive phrase, and avoid misusing tenses. For more formal writing, consider alternatives like "failed to achieve". Its widespread use and applicability make it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

failed to achieve

Emphasizes the lack of success in reaching a specific goal.

were unable to

Highlights the lack of capability or means to accomplish something.

did not succeed in

Focuses on the absence of a positive result despite effort.

could not accomplish

Stresses the impossibility of achieving a desired outcome.

have been unsuccessful in

Highlights the state of not achieving the desired outcome.

fell short of

Indicates a failure to reach a particular standard or expectation.

were defied by

Implies that something or someone opposed their objective with success.

missed the mark

Suggests a failure to hit a target or achieve a desired result, often in a figurative sense.

came up short

A more informal way of saying that someone didn't quite achieve what they were aiming for.

proved incapable of

Emphasizes a lack of inherent ability to do something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "have not managed" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "failed to achieve" or "were unable to". These options often lend a more professional or academic feel to your writing.

Is it better to say "did not manage" or "have not managed"?

The choice depends on the context. "Did not manage" refers to a specific instance in the past, while "have not managed" implies a repeated or ongoing inability up to the present. For example, "I did not manage to finish the report yesterday" versus "I have not managed to get a good night's sleep this week".

What does "have not managed" imply about effort?

"Have not managed" often suggests that an attempt was made, but it was unsuccessful. It's a more nuanced way of saying something wasn't achieved, implying effort without success.

Can "have not managed" be used in all types of writing?

Yes, "have not managed" is suitable for various types of writing. However, consider your audience and the desired tone. In very informal settings, other phrases might be more appropriate. In more formal settings, "failed to achieve" may be more suitable.