he is not capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is not capable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's inability to perform a task or function effectively. Example: "Despite his best efforts, he is not capable of completing the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

He is not capable of it.

The New York Times

"He is not capable of winning back the country".

The New York Times

That, he says, is because he is not capable of writing literary Arabic.

The New York Times

"The park superintendent has shown he is not capable of managing the park," he said.

The New York Times

Although Richard later famously says, "Leave me the world to bustle in," he is not capable of bustling; he hobbles.

The New Yorker

He is not capable of blocking out the world the way the most selfish superstars always do.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Which is not to say that he isn't capable of an unforgettable phrase.

Independent

He isn't capable of it and he wouldn't anyway.

The New Yorker

"If he isn't capable of establishing a genuine alternative then he will have stamped the expiry date on his government".

The Guardian

Why is it felt that he isn't capable of looking for a job, alone, at home? "Well, they obviously thought I wasn't doing it correctly," he says.

Vice

"He's not capable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he is not capable", ensure the context clearly defines the specific task or ability the person lacks. For example, "He is not capable of managing a large team effectively."

Common error

Avoid using "he is not capable" in situations where the person simply needs more training or experience. It suggests a fundamental inability, which might not be accurate or fair.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is not capable" functions as a predicative adjective phrase. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun (in this case, "he") and describes a state of lacking ability or qualification. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he is not capable" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate a lack of ability or qualification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is frequently found in neutral to formal contexts, especially in news and media, and formal business communications. While there are several alternatives such as "he lacks the ability" or "he is unable", it's important to use the phrase accurately, avoiding overstatements and ensuring the context clarifies the specific limitation being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he lacks the ability

Focuses on the absence of a general skill or capacity.

he is unable

A direct synonym emphasizing the lack of possibility.

he is not equipped

Highlights the lack of necessary resources or skills.

he is not qualified

Focuses on the lack of formal qualifications or experience.

he is unfit

Indicates a lack of suitability or preparedness.

he is inadequate

Emphasizes a deficiency in the necessary qualities or skills.

he is not up to the task

Specifically refers to the inability to handle a particular job or challenge.

he can't manage

Focuses on the inability to control or handle a situation.

he falls short

Indicates a failure to reach a required standard.

he doesn't have what it takes

Emphasizes the lack of essential qualities for success.

FAQs

What does "he is not capable" mean?

The phrase "he is not capable" means that someone lacks the ability, skill, or qualification to do something. It indicates a limitation in their capacity to perform a specific task or fulfill a requirement.

How can I use "he is not capable" in a sentence?

You can use "he is not capable" to describe someone's inability to perform a task or function effectively. For example: "Despite his best efforts, "he is not capable of" completing the project on time."

What can I say instead of "he is not capable"?

You can use alternatives like "he lacks the ability", "he is unable", or "he is not qualified" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "he is not capable"?

It's appropriate to use "he is not capable" when someone demonstrably lacks the necessary skills, resources, or qualities to succeed in a particular situation or with a specific task. Be mindful of the severity of the statement, as it implies a fundamental limitation.