it is not capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not capable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that lacks the ability or capacity to perform a specific function or task. Example: "The old software is not capable of handling the new file formats we need."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

FAFLP is useful to discriminate between isolates, when investigating local epidemics, but on its own it is not capable to identify clonal complexes and elucidate the population structure of P. aeruginosa.

Plosone

Surprisingly, the human homologue of this protein also shows three-dimensional conservation of this motif, however due to the accumulation of negatively charged residues on the surface of its β-sheet, it is not capable of accommodating an oligonucleotide (Figure 3D).

Plosone

The South Korean government's new warning came three days after its defense minister said that the North had moved a missile with a "considerable range" to its east coast, although it is not capable of reaching the mainland United States.

The New York Times

Despite the stealth HIV-1 has evolved in its replication in macrophages, it is not capable of universally avoiding triggering IFN production.

Cell Host and Microbe

"The Department of Justice demonstrated conclusively that it is not capable of disciplining its prosecutors," the statement added.

The New York Times

The legal team that defended Mr. Stevens, Republican of Alaska, called those suspensions "pathetic" and inadequate, saying the department had "demonstrated conclusively that it is not capable of disciplining its prosecutors".

The New York Times

Goodman claims that, if a generalization is accidental (and so not lawlike), then it is not capable of receiving confirmation from one of its instances.

SEP

Although near-field electrospinning is termed a best tool to deposit solid nanofibers in using direct-write, it is not capable enough to fabricate mass production with its single nozzle; moreover, it is easy to cause fiber diameters become thicker because of shortening spinneret-to-substrate distance [14].

Robotics and Biomimetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

But if this year's record is any indication, Congress has shown that it isn't capable of getting much done, and Martin has the backing of the White House.

Forbes

Though the design can estimate effects of all main factors, it isn't capable of estimating all the two-way interactions due to confounding.

BMC Public Health

In fact, it's not capable of intervening anywhere, because it is already intervened everywhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is not capable", ensure the context clearly defines what "it" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not capable" in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "it can't" or "it is unable to" are more appropriate. Overly formal language can sound stilted or unnatural in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not capable" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating a lack of ability, capacity, or suitability. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is correct and appropriate for use in English writing. Examples from Ludwig show its use in academic, news, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

22%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not capable" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a lack of ability or capacity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in scientific, news-related, and formal settings. While it can be replaced with simpler alternatives like "it cannot" or "it is unable to", understanding its nuances and appropriate register ensures effective communication. Remember to maintain clarity by specifying what "it" refers to, and avoid overly formal tones in casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it lacks the ability to

This alternative directly states the absence of ability, offering a straightforward substitution.

it is unable to

A more concise and direct way of expressing a lack of capacity.

it cannot

A contraction that provides a simple and informal substitute.

it is unequipped to

Suggests a lack of necessary tools or resources to perform a task.

it is ill-equipped to

Emphasizes a severe lack of resources or preparation.

it is beyond its capabilities

This phrase highlights that the task exceeds the item's inherent limits.

it is not designed to

Focuses on the intended purpose or limitations of the item.

it falls short of being able to

Highlights a failure to reach a certain level of ability.

it is deficient in the capacity to

A more formal way of indicating a specific lack of capacity.

it doesn't have what it takes to

An informal expression suggesting a lack of necessary qualities or skills.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not capable" in a sentence?

You can use "it is not capable" to describe something that lacks the ability or capacity to perform a specific function or task. For example: "The old software "is not capable" of handling the new file formats we need."

What are some alternatives to "it is not capable"?

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

Which is correct, "it is not capable" or "it isn't capable"?

Both "it is not capable" and "it isn't capable" are grammatically correct. "It isn't capable" is a contraction and is more informal.

What's the difference between "it is not capable" and "it is not able"?

"It is not capable" implies a more inherent or fundamental lack of ability, while "it is not able" can refer to a temporary or situational inability. However, they are often used interchangeably.