is incapable

USAGE SUMMARY

"is incapable" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone or something cannot do or is unable to do something. For example: "The computer is incapable of responding to such complex questions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She is incapable of dissimulating.

The New York Times - Arts

But Tyson is incapable of dullness.

The New Yorker

He is incapable of making small talk.

The New Yorker

My mind is incapable of thought.

Independent

Something that is incapable of being improved.

Independent

Japan's political establishment is incapable of leadership.

The Economist

But McCullin is incapable of pretence.

The Guardian

This ensemble is incapable of routine.

The New York Times

"She is incapable of independent existence.

The New York Times

"My character is incapable of empathy.

The Guardian - Film

She is incapable of being inauthentic".

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is incapable", ensure the context clearly specifies what the subject is unable to do. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "is incapable" when a situation is merely difficult or unlikely. Reserve it for scenarios where a genuine, inherent inability exists to maintain accuracy and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is incapable" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, modifying the subject by asserting a lack of ability or capacity. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

24%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is incapable" is a versatile phrase used to express a lack of ability or capacity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and frequently found in diverse contexts, especially News & Media. While alternatives like ""is unable to"" or ""cannot"" exist, "is incapable" offers a formal tone suitable for professional and academic settings. Remember to use it when a genuine inability exists to maintain clarity and impact. By avoiding overstatement and specifying the limitation, you can effectively use "is incapable" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unable to

Focuses on the lack of ability or power to do something.

is not able to

Emphasizes the absence of the necessary means or qualification.

cannot

A more direct and concise way of expressing inability.

is not in a position to

Highlights the lack of a suitable situation or circumstance.

is unequipped to

Stresses the lack of necessary equipment, skills, or resources.

is deficient in

Indicates a lack or shortage of something essential.

is inadequate for

Suggests that something does not meet the required standard or need.

is unfit to

Implies a lack of suitability or qualification for a particular purpose.

lacks the capacity to

Highlights the absence of the inherent ability to do something.

is out of the question

Indicates that something is not possible or allowed.

FAQs

How can I use "is incapable" in a sentence?

Use "is incapable" to state that someone or something lacks the ability or capacity to do something. For instance, "The old computer "is incapable" of running modern software".

What are some alternatives to saying "is incapable"?

Alternatives include "is unable to", "is not able to", or "cannot", depending on the context. Each carries a slightly different nuance, but they all express a lack of ability.

Is it better to say "is incapable of" or "cannot"?

Both are correct, but "is incapable of" is more formal. "Cannot" is more direct and often used in everyday conversation. The best choice depends on the desired tone and context.

What does it mean when something is described as "incapable"?

When something is described as "incapable", it means it lacks the necessary ability, power, or qualities to perform a specific action or fulfill a particular function.