not been capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not been capable of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express an inability to perform a certain action or task in the past. Example: "Despite numerous attempts, they have not been capable of solving the complex problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Ultimately, the prime minister has not been capable of providing the economic leadership our nation needs.

The Guardian

He has not been capable of providing the economic confidence that business needs.

The Guardian

Turnbull said the prime minister had "not been capable of providing the economic leadership our nation needs".

The Guardian

Ronan McNern, a member of the camp said: "The City of London have not been capable of answering the simple demands we put to them.

The Guardian

In truth, they have not been capable of taking Eurovision seriously since October 5, 1962, when the Beatles released "Love Me Do".

The New Yorker

Moreover, to-date natural language generation systems have not been capable of faithfully reproducing either the variety or complexity of naturally occurring narratives.

Artificial Intelligence

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Trump might not be capable of surmounting that last hurdle.

The Washington Post

Otherwise, theory holds, they would not be capable of changing form, called oscillation.

The New York Times

It contends that the states may not be capable of an effective overhaul.

The New York Times

"He may not be capable of enacting revenge, but he has stature within a certain community.

The New York Times

"Without this, the party will not be capable of winning an election," Mr Clarke said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not been capable of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the subject was unable to do and why. This improves clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "not been capable of" in simple sentences where simpler alternatives like "unable to" or "could not" would suffice. Choose the most direct and concise phrasing appropriate for your writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not been capable of" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, describing a lack of ability or capacity. As Ludwig AI states, it expresses an inability to perform a certain action or task in the past.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not been capable of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a past inability or lack of capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While the phrase is accurate, simpler alternatives like "unable to" or "not able to" may often be more appropriate. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, as well as in scientific writing, indicating a neutral level of formality. When using this phrase, ensure the context is clear about what the subject was unable to do. While it is not an extremely common phrase, it effectively conveys a sense of past inability when used correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unable to

A simpler, more direct substitution, focusing on the inability to perform an action.

not able to

Similar to 'unable to', but uses a more common and easily understood phrasing.

incapable of

A more formal and emphatic way of stating an inability.

lacking the ability to

Emphasizes the absence of a specific skill or capacity.

deficient in

Highlights a shortage or inadequacy in a specific area or skill.

not equipped to

Focuses on a lack of necessary resources, knowledge, or training to handle a situation.

inadequate for

Indicates that something is not sufficient or suitable for a particular purpose.

not up to the task of

Implies that something or someone does not meet the requirements or standards for a particular job.

falling short of

Suggests a failure to reach a desired standard or expectation.

without the aptitude for

Highlights a lack of natural talent or inclination towards something.

FAQs

What does "not been capable of" mean?

The phrase "not been capable of" means that someone or something has lacked the ability, skill, or capacity to do something in the past.

How can I use "not been capable of" in a sentence?

Use "not been capable of" to describe a past inability. For example: "The old system had "not been capable of" handling the increased data load."

What are some alternatives to "not been capable of"?

Alternatives include simpler phrases like "unable to", "not able to", or "incapable of" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is there a difference between "not been capable of" and "unable to"?

While both express an inability, "not been capable of" can sometimes imply a more inherent or long-term lack of capacity, while "unable to" can refer to a more situational or temporary inability.