is unable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is unable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something lacks the ability or capacity to do something. Example: "She is unable to attend the meeting due to a prior commitment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He is unable to walk".

The New York Times

He is unable to make physical contact.

Independent

Sadly, it is unable to do so.

The Economist

Mr. Wenzel himself is unable to communicate.

The New York Times - Sports

Doug is unable to find his ball.

The New York Times

He is unable to forgive.

The Guardian

She is unable to work.

The Guardian

This mutant is unable to grow photosynthetically.

Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology

"Reverend Greene is unable to defend himself".

The New York Times

"China is unable to affect Japan's choice.

The Guardian

Biggs is unable to walk or talk.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is unable", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is unable to do. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the action or task.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "is unable" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using "can't" or "isn't able to" for a more natural tone in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is unable" functions as a copular verb followed by an adjective complement. It's used to describe a state of being, indicating a lack of ability or capacity. Ludwig's examples demonstrate it describing inabilities related to physical actions, communication, or system functionalities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

36%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is unable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction to denote a lack of ability or capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. While its formality is generally neutral, it's crucial to consider simpler alternatives like "can't" in informal settings. This analysis highlights its prevalence in news, science, and academic contexts, providing a guide for effective and contextually appropriate use. Keep in mind that a good variety of synonyms are available, to spice up your writing!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot

A more direct and common synonym, simply stating the impossibility of an action.

is not able to

A slightly more verbose but equally valid alternative, emphasizing the lack of ability.

lacks the ability to

Highlights the absence of the necessary skill or power to do something.

is incapable of

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing the lack of ability.

is not in a position to

Indicates that circumstances prevent someone from doing something.

is powerless to

Emphasizes a lack of control or influence over a situation.

fails to

Focuses on the unsuccessful outcome of an attempt.

is unequipped to

Suggests a lack of the necessary tools or resources.

finds it impossible to

Highlights the subjective experience of being unable to do something.

is prevented from

Suggests an external force hindering the action.

FAQs

How to use "is unable" in a sentence?

Use "is unable" to indicate a lack of capacity or ability. For example, "He "is unable to attend" the meeting" or "The system "is unable to process" the request at this time".

What can I say instead of "is unable"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot", "is not able to", or "lacks the ability to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is unable to" or "unable to"?

"Is unable to" is a complete phrase with a verb, suitable for full sentences. "Unable to" is often used as an adjective phrase. For example: "He is unable to come" vs. "His unable assistant couldn't fill in for him".

What's the difference between "is unable to" and "is unwilling to"?

"Is unable to" indicates a lack of capacity or ability, while "is unwilling to" indicates a lack of desire or motivation. For example, "He "is unable to help" because he lacks the skills," versus "He "is unwilling to help" because he doesn't want to".