it cannot be either

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it cannot be either" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing options or possibilities that are mutually exclusive, indicating that neither option is valid or applicable. Example: "In this case, it cannot be either option A or option B, as both lead to the same outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"What we say is it cannot be either or; it's not either austerity or growth, that's just a false debate.

The Guardian

But consciousness is so strongly unified that it cannot be either compounded or divided.

SEP

Such a provision is obviously essential; and it is equally obvious that it cannot be either peaceable or effective by making every part an authoritative umpire.

University of Chicago

In Quodlibet III, q. 1 he attempts to establish the analogical character of being by arguing at some length that it cannot be either univocal or purely equivocal.

SEP

Indeed, the existent as such is immaterial and only non-existence in the absolute sense does (obviously) not exist, since it cannot be either conceived or discussed (Ilāhiyyāt, I, 5, 32, 6 16).

SEP

For example, it cannot be either right or wrong for an animal to spend any particular amount of time in the various parts of the box in the exploration task.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It cannot be either-or.

The New York Times

Randall argues that "a refusal to acknowledge failure cannot be either honourably or – more important – constructively maintained.

The Guardian

Such expressions and prescriptions are kinds of thing that cannot be either true or false.

SEP

In the nature of this case, what is agreed upon cannot be either specific or unspecific.

SEP

This contrast cannot be either internal or external to the "now" and to the "then".

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it cannot be either", ensure that the context clearly presents two distinct possibilities. This construction is most effective when highlighting the mutual exclusivity of the options.

Common error

Avoid using "it cannot be either" when more than two options are under consideration. This phrase is specifically designed for binary scenarios, and its application to multiple possibilities can create confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it cannot be either" functions as a conjunction phrase, typically used to indicate that two stated options or conditions are mutually exclusive and neither is possible or valid. As Ludwig AI suggests, it serves to negate both possibilities simultaneously.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it cannot be either" serves as a conjunction to negate two distinct possibilities, highlighting their mutual exclusivity. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, spanning across science, media, and academic writings. While not extremely common, its role in clarifying limitations and impossibilities makes it a valuable asset in precise communication. When using this phrase, ensure clear presentation of two, and only two, mutually exclusive options to avoid confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it cannot be one or the other

This alternative simplifies the expression by directly stating that only one option is possible.

it must be neither

This phrase emphasizes the impossibility of both options being valid.

it cannot be both

Focuses on the mutual exclusivity by highlighting that the two elements cannot coexist or both be true.

it isn't possible to have both

States directly that having both options simultaneously is not feasible.

it's not either/or

More colloquial, this suggests that the situation is more complex than a simple binary choice.

it defies simple categorization

Shifts the focus to the complexity of the situation, implying it surpasses basic classifications.

it is not limited to these options

Suggests there are more possibilities than the ones initially presented.

both options are invalid

Emphasizes that neither of the presented choices is a viable solution.

neither is a viable choice

Highlights the lack of suitability of each option individually.

it doesn't fit either category

Specifies that the subject in question cannot be classified into either of the given groups.

FAQs

How can I use "it cannot be either" in a sentence?

Use "it cannot be either" to indicate that two options presented are mutually exclusive and that neither is possible or applicable. For example: "In this case, "it cannot be either" austerity or uncontrolled spending, as both will lead to financial instability."

What can I say instead of "it cannot be either"?

You can use alternatives such as "it cannot be one or the other", "it cannot be both", or "it must be neither", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "it can't be either"?

Yes, "it can't be either" is a contraction of "it cannot be either" and is perfectly acceptable in informal contexts. The meaning remains the same.

What's the difference between "it cannot be either" and "neither can it be"?

"It cannot be either" directly negates two explicit options, whereas "neither can it be" is used to add a negative assertion that aligns with a previous negative statement, often implying a similar reason for rejection.