it is impossible to prescribe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is impossible to prescribe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing situations where specific guidelines, rules, or solutions cannot be established or provided. Example: "In cases of complex human behavior, it is impossible to prescribe a one-size-fits-all solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is impossible to prescribe these – nor would I want to.

The Guardian - Books

An uncertainty of some duration arose in the theory from the fact that the final partial differential equation for the transverse displacement is such that it is impossible to prescribe, simultaneously, along an unsupported edge of the plate, both the twisting moment per unit length of middle surface and the transverse shear force per unit length.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The happy thought builds on the known facts, but according to Whewell it is impossible to prescribe a method for having happy thoughts.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In this study, it is impossible to know whether BZD was prescribed to treat anxiety or epilepsy.

BMJ Open

It is impossible to predict.

The Economist

It is impossible to relax".

Independent

"It is impossible to forget".

The New York Times

It is impossible to know.

The New York Times

It is impossible to tell.

The New York Times

It is impossible to say.

Independent

It is impossible to pinpoint it.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is impossible to prescribe" when discussing abstract concepts or situations where fixed rules or solutions are not applicable. This often occurs in contexts involving human behavior, creativity, or unpredictable systems.

Common error

Avoid using "it is impossible to prescribe" when a situation is merely difficult or complex. Reserve it for cases where a specific solution or instruction is genuinely unattainable, not just challenging to formulate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is impossible to prescribe" functions as a statement of inability or impossibility. It indicates that establishing specific rules, guidelines, or methods is not feasible in a given situation. As Ludwig AI points out, it suggests something cannot be controlled or ordered.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is impossible to prescribe" is a grammatically correct expression used to indicate that defining or establishing specific instructions, solutions, or methods is not feasible in a given context. Ludwig AI analysis, supported by examples from reputable sources, reveals that while grammatically sound, this phrase appears relatively infrequently. Its usage spans across news, encyclopedias, and science domains, suggesting a formal register. When aiming for clarity, consider alternatives like "it cannot be dictated" or "it is unfeasible to specify" to cater to specific nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it cannot be dictated

Replaces "impossible to prescribe" with a more direct assertion that something cannot be controlled or ordered.

it is unfeasible to specify

Focuses on the impracticality of defining or detailing something precisely.

it is not possible to define

Emphasizes the inability to establish a clear definition.

it is beyond definition

Highlights that something surpasses the limits of being defined or described.

it defies standardization

Suggests that something is resistant to being made uniform or conforming to a standard.

no method can be stipulated

States that no particular procedure or method can be formally required or specified.

it's impossible to lay down rules

Emphasizes the inability to create regulations or guidelines.

specific guidelines are unattainable

Focuses on the fact that providing particular directions or instructions is not achievable.

detailed instructions are out of reach

Similar to the previous, but uses a more figurative expression.

there's no blueprint to follow

Implies the absence of a pre-designed plan or strategy that can be used as a model.

FAQs

How can I use "it is impossible to prescribe" in a sentence?

You can use "it is impossible to prescribe" when discussing situations where specific guidelines, rules, or solutions cannot be established or provided. For example, "In creative endeavors, "it is impossible to prescribe" a single, correct approach".

What are some alternatives to "it is impossible to prescribe"?

Alternatives include "it cannot be dictated", "it is unfeasible to specify", or "it is not possible to define", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "it is impossible to prescribe" instead of "it is difficult to prescribe"?

"It is impossible to prescribe" should be used when a specific solution or method is truly unattainable. "It is difficult to prescribe" is more appropriate when a solution exists but is hard to determine or implement.

Is "it was impossible to prescribe" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it was impossible to prescribe" is grammatically correct. It's simply the past tense form of the phrase. For example: "Looking back, "it was impossible to prescribe" a solution given the limited information we had at the time".