it may not be workable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it may not be workable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the feasibility or practicality of an idea, plan, or solution. Example: "After reviewing the proposal, I have to say that it may not be workable given our current resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

First, it may not be workable.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Critics suggest the emphasis on participation might be the party's achilles heel, in that it leads to ideas that, while popular, may not be workable.

The Guardian

New staff will be hired on the same basis.In these pilot schemes, the private contractors will manage staff on secondment from the NHS, which may or may not be workable.

The Economist

Considering the challenges in the under-resourced regions of the world, the use of operation and maintenance professional may not be workable because of the communal lassitude towards such professionals and the cost implication on the part of the homeowners.

Applied Water Science

In his annual speech at the Lord Mayor of London's trade and industry banquet, Mr Cable admitted the idea may not be workable, because "we would run into problems with EU state aid clearance".

BBC

Therefore, theoretically the gradient method may be perfectly workable, but practically it may not be so conveniently implementable.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

By enabling anyone to create their own textbooks, Apple attempted to cut the buearacracy at the knees; it may not be a perfect solution, but it was a savvy end-around maneuver to create a workable solution.

TechCrunch

Based on "an holistic review of the consensus and experience to date, the equation may still not be workable for a few more years, if at all".

The Guardian

Even true believers on the Israeli Left are now seeing that the vaunted two-state paradigm may simply not be workable.

Huffington Post

It would not be workable without a programme to implement before elections come," Machar was quoted as saying.

Huffington Post

This may or may not be a workable idea; it is a little difficult to imagine Republican candidates winning widespread popular support for it anytime soon.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential plans or solutions, use "it may not be workable" to express doubts about their practicality given existing limitations or constraints.

Common error

Avoid using "it may not be workable" when a stronger, more definitive statement is appropriate. If the evidence clearly indicates something is impossible, a more direct assertion is preferable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may not be workable" functions as a modal phrase expressing doubt or uncertainty regarding the practicality or feasibility of a plan, idea, or solution. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it may not be workable" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express doubt about the practicality or feasibility of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While suitable for various contexts, it appears frequently in news, media, and scientific discussions. Alternatives like ""it might not be feasible"" or ""it may not be viable"" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in formality. When using this phrase, consider the strength of your assertion and avoid overstating the unlikelihood if stronger evidence suggests impossibility. Understanding these nuances helps ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might not be feasible

Replaces 'may' with 'might' and 'workable' with 'feasible', offering a slightly less formal tone.

it might not be practical

Substitutes 'workable' with 'practical', emphasizing the realistic application of something.

it may not be viable

Replaces 'workable' with 'viable', focusing on the capacity to function independently or sustainably.

it may prove unworkable

Uses 'prove unworkable' to suggest a future outcome of being not workable, adding a degree of certainty.

it might not be achievable

Replaces 'workable' with 'achievable', focusing on the possibility of reaching a desired outcome or result.

it may not be implementable

Substitutes 'workable' with 'implementable', emphasizing the ability to put something into effect.

it may not be realistic

Replaces 'workable' with 'realistic', highlighting whether something aligns with real-world constraints and possibilities.

it may not be attainable

Substitutes 'workable' with 'attainable', highlighting the capacity to achieve a desired outcome.

it may not stand up to scrutiny

Indicates that something may not be valid or robust when closely examined.

it could be difficult to put into practice

Expresses that implementing something might present challenges, focusing on practical application.

FAQs

What does "it may not be workable" mean?

The phrase "it may not be workable" indicates that something might not be practical or feasible in a given situation. It suggests potential difficulties or obstacles that could prevent a plan or idea from succeeding.

Are there synonyms for "it may not be workable"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "it might not be feasible", "it might not be practical", or "it may not be viable" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "it may not be workable"?

Use "it may not be workable" when assessing the practicality of a plan or idea, and you have concerns about its feasibility due to resource constraints, logistical challenges, or other potential obstacles.

Is "it may not be workable" formal or informal?

"It may not be workable" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal settings, consider alternatives like "it may not be implementable" or "it may prove unworkable" to maintain a professional tone.