it cannot be used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it cannot be used" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when referring to something that cannot be accessed or utilized. For example: "This software is no longer supported, so it cannot be used."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Now it cannot be used to bug either of us".

The New York Times

However, its positive charge makes it toxic and so it cannot be used in vivo.

Polymer

It cannot be used.

The New York Times

It cannot be used for lowering the deficit.

The New York Times

It cannot be used to replace teaching and using video should always be well planned.

The Guardian

It cannot be used to prove that I am alarmist or that I promote exaggeration.

The Guardian

But this technology uses mobile-phone masts so it cannot be used over oceans.

The Economist

The iPhone cannot be used with Internet phone services like Skype; it cannot be used as a modem for a personal computer and it cannot be used to connect to peer-to-peer networks.

The New York Times

Then the printer breaks and your expensive little cache is worthless because it cannot be used on the replacement printer.

The New York Times

Once a band name has been used, it cannot be used again without the prospect of litigation.

The Guardian - Music

"So it cannot be used as a pretext to provoke a distancing in relations between the United States and Mexico".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it cannot be used", ensure the context clearly defines what "it" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader. For instance, instead of "It cannot be used", write "This software cannot be used".

Common error

While "it cannot be used" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive constructions can make your writing sound weak or indirect. When possible, consider using an active voice alternative for a more direct and engaging tone. For example, instead of "It cannot be used by inexperienced users", try "Inexperienced users cannot use it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it cannot be used" functions as a statement of prohibition or impossibility. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It generally indicates that a particular object, method, or resource is not permissible or feasible for a certain purpose due to various constraints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

57%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it cannot be used" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression indicating that something is not suitable, permissible, or functional for a particular purpose. Ludwig AI validates its correctness. It appears commonly in news, media, and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While versatile, writers should be mindful of overusing passive voice constructions. Alternative phrases, such as "it is unusable" or "it is not applicable", can provide variety and precision depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is unusable

Focuses on the state of being unfit for use.

it is not suitable

Emphasizes a lack of appropriateness for a given situation.

it is not applicable

Highlights that something doesn't apply or is irrelevant.

it is impermissible

Stresses that something is not allowed or permissible.

it is not an option

Indicates that something is not a viable choice or alternative.

it's out of the question

Suggests that something is completely impossible or unacceptable.

it is not viable

Indicates something is not practical or capable of succeeding.

it is precluded

Emphasizes that something is prevented from happening or being used.

it's off-limits

Indicates something is restricted or forbidden.

it's prohibited

Highlights that something is formally forbidden by authority or law.

FAQs

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

The phrase "it cannot be used" indicates that something is not suitable or permissible for a particular purpose. For example, "This password "cannot be used" because it's too short".

What are some alternatives to "it cannot be used"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it is unusable", "it is not suitable", or "it is not applicable".

Is it better to say "it cannot be used" or "it can't be used"?

Both "it cannot be used" and "it can't be used" are grammatically correct. The contracted form, "it can't be used", is more informal and common in spoken English, while "it cannot be used" is more formal and often preferred in writing.

Can "it cannot be used" be replaced with a more active construction?

Yes, you can often rephrase sentences with "it cannot be used" to use an active voice. For example, instead of "The software "it cannot be used" on this operating system", you could say "This operating system does not support the software".