not adaptable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not adaptable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that cannot be changed or adjusted to fit different conditions or requirements. Example: "The current software is not adaptable to the new operating system, which is causing compatibility issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

They are nothing if not adaptable.

The New York Times - Tech

Japan is nothing if not adaptable.

The New York Times - Magazine

He is stubborn and not adaptable.

The New York Times

Viruses and bacteria are nothing if not adaptable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Humans know how to live in different climates – they are nothing if not adaptable.

The Guardian

You should not come to Flushing, however, if you're not adaptable.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Ludendorff suffered from the failing of all dictators: he wasn't adaptable enough.

The Guardian - Books

In many careers, you can grind away for years and get nowhere if you aren't adaptable, creative, alert.

The New Yorker

Mrs. Citera said the helmet comes in two sizes and "fit him well" but was disappointed that it wasn't adaptable for summer sports.

The New York Times

It hasn't responded to changes in the market, [and] isn't adaptable at all.

BBC

Companies aren't adaptable and creative because their employees are young.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not adaptable", clearly specify what the subject is not adaptable to. For example, instead of saying "This system is not adaptable", specify "This system is not adaptable to changing market conditions".

Common error

Avoid using "not adaptable" as a blanket statement without providing context. Saying something is "not adaptable" without specifying the context makes the statement vague and less impactful. Instead, clarify the specific limitations or situations where the lack of adaptability becomes an issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not adaptable" functions as an adjective phrase that typically modifies a noun, describing its lack of capacity to adjust to different conditions or requirements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not adaptable" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something lacking the ability to adjust or change easily to new conditions. Ludwig AI validates its use across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While "not adaptable" is widely understood, it's important to provide context to specify what the subject cannot adapt to. Consider using alternatives like "inflexible" or "resistant to change" depending on the nuance you intend to convey. Always aim for clarity and avoid broad generalizations when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inflexible

This alternative emphasizes a rigid nature and a resistance to bending or changing.

rigid

This highlights a strict and unyielding quality, focusing on adherence to a fixed form or standard.

unyielding

This suggests a stubborn refusal to give way or compromise, highlighting a lack of responsiveness.

unaccommodating

This stresses a lack of willingness or ability to adjust to others' needs or circumstances.

unmalleable

This emphasizes an inability to be shaped or influenced, often referring to a fixed character or form.

unpliable

This describes something or someone that is difficult to manipulate or persuade, highlighting resistance to external influence.

inflexible nature

This is a more descriptive alternative highlighting the nature of being inflexible.

resistant to change

This directly addresses the inability or unwillingness to undergo alteration or modification.

ill-suited

This indicates a poor match or inappropriate fit for a particular purpose or situation.

incompatible

This highlights a fundamental inability to coexist or function harmoniously with something else.

FAQs

How can I use "not adaptable" in a sentence?

You can use "not adaptable" to describe something that cannot be easily changed or modified to fit new conditions. For example, "The old software system is "not adaptable" to the latest operating systems".

What are some alternatives to saying "not adaptable"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "inflexible", "rigid", "resistant to change", or "unyielding". Choose the word that best reflects the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when something is described as "not adaptable"?

When something is described as "not adaptable", it means it lacks the ability to adjust or change easily to new circumstances, requirements, or conditions. This can be a disadvantage in dynamic environments that require flexibility.

Is there a difference between saying something is "not adaptive" versus "not adaptable"?

While similar, "not adaptive" implies a lack of inherent capacity to evolve or adjust over time, whereas "not adaptable" suggests a lack of ability to be modified or adjusted to a specific, immediate situation. "Not adaptive" refers more to a natural or evolutionary trait, while ""not adaptable"" refers more to a situational or designed characteristic.