unable to identify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unable to identify" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a lack of ability to recognize or determine something. Example: "The technician was unable to identify the source of the problem despite thorough investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They have been unable to identify most.

The New York Times

Once again, I was unable to identify him.

The Guardian

City officials were unable to identify the family yesterday.

The New York Times

"We were unable to identify any alternatives to this measure".

The New York Times

John Morgan, the military spokesman, who was unable to identify the unit.

The New York Times

After several swigs, he was unable to identify the bird but he was very happy.

The New Yorker

Mr. Schwarz was the driver, but Mr. Louima has been unable to identify him in court.

The New York Times

State lab workers were unable to identify its contents, officials said.

The New York Times

So far we have been unable to identify the owner of the bag strap.

The Guardian

They are also apparently unable to identify who ordered her execution.

The Guardian

The investigators have apparently been unable to identify who ordered Politkovskaya's killing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unable to identify", ensure the context clearly explains what could not be identified and why. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "unable to identify" in unnecessarily passive constructions. Instead of "The cause was unable to be identified", prefer "Researchers were unable to identify the cause" for a more direct and clear statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unable to identify" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun (either explicitly stated or implied). It indicates a state of lacking the capacity or means to recognize or determine something, as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unable to identify" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote an inability to recognize or determine something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase finds common application across diverse contexts, including news, scientific literature, and encyclopedic entries. Predominantly, it serves to communicate a limitation in identifying specific entities, causes, or information. While maintaining a neutral to professional tone, its objective nature renders it suitable for reports, analyses, and narratives where clarity and precision are paramount. When utilizing this phrase, it's essential to contextualize what is unidentifiable and the rationale behind the inability, ensuring enhanced clarity for the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unsuccessful in identifying

Replaces "unable" with "unsuccessful", highlighting the lack of success in the identification process.

failed to identify

Uses "failed" to emphasize the lack of success in the identification attempt.

could not identify

Replaces "unable" with "could not", indicating a lack of capability.

not able to identify

Expands "unable" into "not able", providing a slightly more verbose alternative.

incapable of identifying

Substitutes "unable" with "incapable", stressing the lack of inherent ability.

not in a position to identify

Indicates a circumstantial inability to identify.

without the ability to identify

Emphasizes the absence of the required skill or capacity.

lacking the means to identify

Highlights a deficiency in the resources needed for identification.

finding it impossible to identify

Highlights the perceived impossibility of the identification process.

struggling to identify

Highlights the difficulties in identifying something.

FAQs

How can I use "unable to identify" in a sentence?

Use "unable to identify" to express a lack of ability to recognize or determine something. For example: "The police were unable to identify the suspect".

What can I say instead of "unable to identify"?

You can use alternatives like "failed to identify", "could not identify", or "unsuccessful in identifying" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "unable to identify" or "could not identify"?

"Unable to identify" and "could not identify" are often interchangeable. However, "unable" may suggest a more general lack of ability, while "could not" might imply a specific instance of failure.

What is the difference between "unable to identify" and "refused to identify"?

"Unable to identify" means lacking the capacity or means to recognize or determine something. "Refused to identify", on the other hand, means having the ability but declining to do so.