impossible to operate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impossible to operate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, device, or system that cannot be used or functioned as intended. Example: "Due to the severe damage, the machinery is now impossible to operate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

For the French, this validated the claim that it was impossible to operate tight ensnaring operations in Vietnam's jungle, due to the slow movement of their troops, and a foreknowledge by the enemy, which was difficult to prevent.

Wikipedia

But owners say that tying a home's property to its operation would make it impossible to operate in leased facilities, and exacerbate a growing nationwide nursing home shortage.

The New York Times

"This bill is designed to make it almost impossible to operate a union".

The New York Times

Under such conditions it is virtually impossible to operate as a professional news organisation.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's impossible to operate all over Europe without that level of organisation," he says.

The Guardian

"It's impossible to operate effectively if you're at loggerheads with each other," says Fitzmaurice.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

If they do, it should not be impossible to monitor them night and day, either collecting enough evidence to convict them or making it impossible for them to operate.

The Economist

"War would make it impossible for us to operate," one senior aid worker said last night.

The Guardian

Abortion clinics around the country are reeling under crazy new rules that make it impossible for them to operate.

The New York Times

They made it impossible for clinics to operate in some states, made the procedure harder to access in the first trimester and barred it outright later in pregnancy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Of late, though, the state has seen a vicious political backlash against the microfinance industry that has made it virtually impossible for MFIs to operate.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system or process, clearly specify why it is "impossible to operate". Providing context enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

While accurate, "impossible to operate" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "not working" or "broken" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impossible to operate" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a state of being inoperable. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, showcasing its role in conveying that a subject is incapable of functioning.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

19%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "impossible to operate" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe something that cannot function or be used as intended. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's frequently found in news and media, as well as in scientific and encyclopedic contexts. When writing, ensure you clearly specify why something is inoperable. While versatile, consider simpler alternatives for informal settings. Remember, understanding its nuance and context is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inoperable

A single word that describes something not in working order.

unworkable

Suggests the impossibility is due to practical difficulties.

not functional

A simple and direct way to state that something is not working.

out of service

Commonly used for equipment or systems temporarily unavailable.

incapable of being operated

A more formal and verbose way of expressing the same idea.

unusable

Indicates something cannot be used for its intended purpose.

defunct

Implies something is no longer in existence or functioning.

non-operational

A more technical term for something not working.

beyond repair

Suggests the impossibility is due to irreparable damage.

not viable to operate

Indicates that operating it is not feasible or sustainable.

FAQs

How can I use "impossible to operate" in a sentence?

You can use "impossible to operate" to describe a situation where something cannot be used or functioned as intended. For example, "Due to the severe damage, the machinery is now impossible to operate".

What can I say instead of "impossible to operate"?

You can use alternatives like "inoperable", "unworkable", or "not functional" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "impossible to operate" or "not able to operate"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "impossible to operate" conveys a stronger sense of inability. "Not able to operate" might suggest a temporary or circumstantial limitation, while "impossible to operate" implies a more permanent or fundamental barrier.

What's the difference between "impossible to operate" and "difficult to operate"?

"Impossible to operate" means something cannot be operated at all, while "difficult to operate" means it can be operated but requires significant effort or skill.