he is unable

USAGE SUMMARY

'he is unable' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence such as, "He is unable to complete the task in the allotted time frame."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He is unable to make physical contact.

Independent

He is unable to get around easily.

The Washington Post

He is unable to communicate with strangers.

The Guardian - Books

He is unable to read and write.

The Guardian - Opinion

He is unable to help his son.

The New Yorker

Like Genji, however, he is unable to take that step.

The New Yorker

If he is unable to return, his legacy is secure.

The New York Times

Later, in bed, he is unable to fall asleep.

The New Yorker

He is unable to make the trip by public transportation.

The New York Times

To compound his frustrations, he is unable to work.

The Guardian

He is unable to lift the water fountain, however.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he is unable", ensure the reason for the inability is clear from the context. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "he is unable" without clarifying what prevents him from doing something. For example, instead of "He is unable", specify "He is unable to attend due to illness."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is unable" functions as an adjective phrase expressing a state of incapacity or lack of ability. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. Examples show it describing limitations in physical ability, legal constraints, or circumstantial impediments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

17%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "he is unable" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express a lack of ability or capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Its primary function is to inform or explain limitations, and it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts, especially News & Media. To enhance clarity in writing, remember to specify the cause of the inability. While the phrase is versatile, related phrases like "he cannot" or "he is incapable" can offer stylistic alternatives, depending on the desired tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he cannot

A more direct and concise way of expressing inability.

he is incapable

Replaces "unable" with a synonym suggesting a fundamental lack of capacity.

he is not capable

Emphasizes the absence of the necessary skills or qualities.

he lacks the ability

Focuses on the missing skill or talent required for a task.

he is not in a position

Indicates that circumstances prevent him from doing something.

it is beyond his power

Highlights the limitations of his capabilities in a more formal tone.

he is unfit

Suggests that he is not suitable or prepared for a particular task or situation.

he is helpless

Implies a state of being unable to act or assist, often due to vulnerability.

he is powerless

Emphasizes a lack of authority or control over a situation.

he fails to

Highlights the unsuccessful attempt at performing a task due to inability.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "he is unable" for a formal context?

In formal contexts, you could use alternatives like "he is incapable", "he lacks the capacity to", or "he is not capable" to maintain a professional tone.

What's a more casual way to say "he is unable"?

For informal situations, consider using phrases such as "he cannot", "he can't", or "he is powerless".

Which is more appropriate: "he is unable to" or "he cannot"?

"He cannot" is generally more direct and versatile, suitable for most situations. "He is unable to" is slightly more formal and emphasizes a lack of ability. Both are grammatically correct.

How does "he is unable" differ from "he is unwilling"?

"He is unable" indicates a lack of capability or opportunity, while "he is unwilling" suggests a lack of motivation or desire. The former implies an inherent or external limitation, while the latter implies a choice or reluctance.