unable to recognize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unable to recognize" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where someone or something cannot identify or acknowledge a person, object, or concept. Example: "After the long absence, she felt unable to recognize her childhood friend at the reunion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Many are unable to recognize close relatives.

The Washington Post

If memory problems left you unable to recognize your family?

The New York Times

Therefore, they are unable to recognize the specific properties of each case study.

Ecological Indicators

Nwamgba knew that her son now inhabited a mental space that she was unable to recognize.

The New Yorker

The young boy, emaciated and unable to recognize anyone, is on the verge of death.

The New York Times

The self-flagellating insist that Italy is unable to recognize and retain its native talent.

The Guardian - Books

He said Chinese law "exempts from criminal responsibility someone unable to recognize or control his misconduct".

The New York Times

But the young man was unable to recognize a kangaroo, a mushroom or a buttercup.

The New York Times - Science

Her blackest depressions left her mute and catatonic, unable to recognize any semblance of hope.

The New York Times

She seems unable to recognize that any of the things she does are wrong.

The New York Times

The error left the patient with little memory and unable to recognize family members.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unable to recognize", ensure the subject and object of recognition are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify who is unable to recognize what.

Common error

Avoid using "unable to recognize" in overly complex sentences where simpler phrasing would improve clarity. Sometimes, direct language is more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unable to recognize" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun to indicate a lack of ability to identify, acknowledge, or perceive something. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

42%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unable to recognize" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a lack of ability to identify or acknowledge something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While alternatives like "incapable of identifying" or "cannot identify" exist, "unable to recognize" maintains a versatile and widely accepted usage. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and context to avoid ambiguity, and consider the register of your writing, although the phrase is generally neutral. As a final consideration avoid using it in complex sentences to avoid comprehension issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

incapable of identifying

Replaces "unable" with "incapable", emphasizing a lack of capacity.

cannot identify

Uses a more direct and simpler phrasing with "cannot" instead of "unable to".

fails to acknowledge

Shifts focus to acknowledgement rather than simple recognition.

not able to discern

Replaces "recognize" with "discern", suggesting a difficulty in perceiving differences.

does not perceive

Focuses on the lack of perception or understanding.

blind to

Uses a metaphorical expression suggesting a lack of awareness.

oblivious to

Indicates a lack of awareness or consciousness.

ignorant of

Highlights a lack of knowledge or information.

unaware of

Simply states a lack of awareness.

deficient in recognizing

Emphasizes a deficiency or shortcoming in the ability to recognize.

FAQs

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

You can use "unable to recognize" to describe a situation where someone or something cannot identify or acknowledge a person, object, or concept. For example, "Due to the illness, she was unable to recognize her own children".

What are some alternatives to "unable to recognize"?

Alternatives include "incapable of identifying", "cannot identify", or "fails to acknowledge", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "unable to recognize" and "unwilling to recognize"?

"Unable to recognize" implies a lack of ability or capacity, while "unwilling to recognize" implies a deliberate refusal to acknowledge something. The distinction lies in the presence or absence of intent.

When is it appropriate to use "unable to recognize" in formal writing?

It is appropriate in formal writing when describing a genuine lack of capacity or ability to identify something. Ensure that the context is clear and the language is precise.