it is unable to get

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is unable to get" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where something cannot obtain or achieve something else. Example: "The software is malfunctioning, and it is unable to get the necessary updates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Delta officials have said that the airline has had more difficulty recovering from the storm-related disruptions than its rivals because it is unable to get enough of its pilots to volunteer to do the extra flying needed to return operations to normal.

The New York Times

Relations between Germany, Greece and European Union officials suddenly soured after Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou complained openly on Thursday about the lack of detail on the euro zone's pledge to support the country if it is unable to get its fiscal house in order.

Forbes

However, since node 5 is not in the transmission range of node 15, it is unable to get the acknowledgments.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Find a flat, dry area that can get messy, and spread a tarp underneath it if it is unable to get dirty.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

In the Middle East, the United States was so pervasively multilateral in its actions that it was unable to get very much done.

Forbes

He said that Alcan would abandon its pursuit of Pechiney if it was unable to get by the first phase of antitrust approvals from the European Commission.

The New York Times

Gateway Inc., a big Intel customer, started using Athlons in its personal computers this month after it was unable to get all the Intel chips it needed.

The New York Times

It still has to complete an asset sale to achieve a $250 million reduction in debt it promised analysts, but it was unable to get the price it wanted for its magazines for gun enthusiasts.

The New York Times

When the ambulance arrived at 3 p.m., it was unable to get closer than several blocks away.

The New York Times

It was unable to get the measure through the Senate last year, when it was controlled by Democrats.

The New York Times

Three years ago a company called Bopaboo announced plans for a similar service, but it was unable to get licenses from record companies, and the project was abandoned.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For example, specify the subject before stating that "it is unable to get" something.

Common error

Avoid using "it is unable to get" in consecutive sentences without re-establishing what "it" refers to. Over-repetition can make your writing feel monotonous and confusing. Use synonyms or rephrase to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is unable to get" functions as a statement of inability. It indicates that a particular subject lacks the capacity or means to obtain something. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is unable to get" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to indicate a lack of capacity or opportunity to obtain something. Ludwig confirms its validity. While not exceedingly common, it finds its place in various contexts, particularly in news media, science, and wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what "it" refers to and consider more formal alternatives for academic or professional writing. By being mindful of these aspects, you can effectively incorporate "it is unable to get" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it cannot obtain

Uses "cannot obtain" instead of "is unable to get", focusing on the lack of ability to acquire something.

it fails to acquire

Emphasizes the failure to successfully gain possession of something.

it is incapable of obtaining

Highlights the incapability rather than the inability, focusing on inherent lack of capacity.

it lacks the capacity to get

Focuses on the absence of the required capacity or capability.

it is not able to receive

Specifically refers to the inability to receive something, implying a passive role.

it does not succeed in getting

Highlights the lack of success in obtaining something.

it is prevented from getting

Focuses on external factors that hinder the ability to obtain.

it is without access to

Emphasizes the lack of access as the reason for not obtaining something.

it is denied the opportunity to get

Highlights the denial of opportunity as the reason for failure.

it is excluded from getting

Focuses on exclusion as the reason for not obtaining something.

FAQs

What does "it is unable to get" mean?

The phrase "it is unable to get" means that something lacks the capacity or opportunity to obtain or achieve something. This can be due to various reasons, such as limitations, restrictions, or failures.

What can I say instead of "it is unable to get"?

You can use alternatives like "it cannot obtain", "it fails to acquire", or "it is incapable of obtaining" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it is unable to get" in a sentence?

It's appropriate to use "it is unable to get" when you want to express the lack of ability or opportunity for something to obtain or achieve a specific outcome. Ensure that the subject "it" is clearly defined in the sentence.

Is "it is unable to get" formal or informal?

The phrase "it is unable to get" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for highly formal writing, consider using a more sophisticated synonym such as "it cannot obtain".