no longer usable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "no longer usable" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something that has been rendered unusable or inoperative. For example, "This laptop is no longer usable; it needs to be replaced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

But most of it was no longer usable.

The New York Times

But again, most of them were no longer usable.

The New York Times

These lands have been completely depleted, and are no longer usable.

The Guardian

But he said those vessels had not operated since 1990 and were no longer usable.

The New York Times

She added that she now believed that the switchblade was no longer usable as evidence.

The New York Times

Their equipment dates back to the Soviet era, and much of it is no longer usable.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Suddenly, all the data coming from the accelerometer was no longer only usable by Apple; third party developers had their time to shine.

The Guardian - Tech

He said the bomb had been dropped on "a cave target, and that cave target should no longer be usable for anybody to get in or out of".

The New York Times

The blood that was donated in the week after the attack will no longer be usable by the end of this month because red blood cells are perishable.

The New York Times

The Nicaraguan government is deeply worried: it has predicted that, because of falling rainfall and rising temperatures, by 2050 80% of its current coffee growing areas will no longer be usable.

The Guardian

The Light Phone company, in turn, offered to refund backers in countries where the phones would no longer be usable.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the reason why something is "no longer usable", be specific about the cause. For instance, "The software is no longer usable due to a critical bug" provides more clarity than just "The software is no longer usable".

Common error

While "no longer usable" is acceptable, avoid overuse in formal writing. Opt for more precise terms like "obsolete", "unserviceable", or "inoperable" to add nuance and professionalism to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no longer usable" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun by indicating its current state of being unfit or unavailable for use. As noted by Ludwig, it is a correct and understandable phrase in the English language, implying a cessation of usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

28%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "no longer usable" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something is not fit for its intended purpose. Ludwig confirms its correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While versatile, it's beneficial to be specific about the reason for the un usability and to consider more precise alternatives like "inoperable" or "unserviceable" in more formal settings. When employing this phrase, ensure that your writing provides clarity on why the object or system has become non-functional.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not functional

A direct and simple way to state that something does not work.

inoperable

Highlights the inability to function, often due to a mechanical or technical issue.

unworkable

Highlights the impracticality or impossibility of using something.

out of service

Focuses on the operational aspect, indicating a temporary or permanent halt in functionality.

non-operational

Similar to "out of service" but may suggest a more permanent state.

unserviceable

Implies that something is beyond repair or no longer fit for its intended purpose.

unfit for purpose

Emphasizes that something does not meet the requirements for its intended use.

defunct

Suggests that something has ceased to exist or operate.

obsolete

Indicates that something is outdated and no longer in use.

past its prime

Implies that something was once functional but has deteriorated over time.

FAQs

How can I use "no longer usable" in a sentence?

You can use "no longer usable" to describe something that cannot be used anymore. For example, "The equipment is "no longer usable" after the accident".

What are some alternatives to saying "no longer usable"?

Some alternatives include "out of service", "inoperable", or "unserviceable", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "not usable anymore" instead of "no longer usable"?

Both are generally acceptable, but "no longer usable" is often preferred in formal contexts. "Not usable anymore" can sound slightly more informal, whereas "no longer usable" provides a smoother flow.

What does it mean when something is described as "no longer usable"?

It means that the item, system, or resource is in a state where it cannot be used for its intended purpose. This could be due to damage, obsolescence, or other factors rendering it "unfit for purpose".