undrivable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undrivable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a vehicle that is not capable of being driven, often due to mechanical issues or damage. Example: "After the accident, the car was so badly damaged that it was deemed undrivable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Without one or both of the nose wings, a car becomes virtually undrivable and refuses to respond as the driver turns the steering wheel.

The Guardian - Sport

An official statement from the festival read: "Black Rock City has shut down following rainstorms that left standing water on the playa, leaving it undrivable".

Independent

The low-profile tires are also prone to puncture on pitted roads, and in April, one of the hottest months, the car is undrivable for long stretches lest it overheat, said Mr. Jain, who says he owns a construction company.

The New York Times

The driver and I were fine, but the car was undrivable.

The New York Times

After the movie was released, the undrivable Lotus appeared at a few car shows, then ended up abandoned in a Long Island storage unit.

The New York Times - Arts

During the three-month dispute the vehicle has remained undrivable.

The Guardian - Money

"If they're closing the roadways, I'm assuming they're undrivable".

The New York Times

The luckiest lowriders become show cars, dramatically ornate and customized vehicles that are all but undrivable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "undrivable" when focusing on the vehicle's condition that makes it impossible to operate, rather than the driver's ability. If the driver cannot drive, say "the driver is impaired"

Common error

Avoid using "undrivable" to describe a driver's condition. "Undrivable" refers to the state of the vehicle, not the driver. Instead, say "the driver was impaired" or "the driver was unfit to drive" if the driver's condition prevents them from driving.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "undrivable" primarily functions to describe the state of a vehicle, indicating that it is not in a condition to be driven. Ludwig AI confirms this based on its analysis of numerous sentences.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "undrivable" is an adjective used to describe a vehicle that is not in a condition to be driven. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in neutral contexts, particularly in news and media. While "undrivable" is appropriate for describing the state of a vehicle, it should not be used to describe a driver's condition. Alternatives such as "inoperable", "immobilized", or "not roadworthy" can be used depending on the context. Remember to focus on describing the vehicle's condition rather than the driver's ability when using the word "undrivable".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfit to drive

Explicitly states the vehicle's inability to be driven.

not roadworthy

Specifically refers to the vehicle's condition relative to legal driving standards.

immobilized

Emphasizes the inability to move, which prevents driving.

disabled

Highlights the loss of capability to be driven.

inoperable

Focuses on the general inability to function, not specifically driving.

non-functional

Broader term indicating a lack of functionality.

out of commission

Suggests a temporary or permanent removal from service.

unserviceable

Indicates that the vehicle is not fit for use.

beyond repair

Indicates damage so severe that driving is impossible and repair is impractical.

wrecked

Implies severe damage making driving impossible.

FAQs

How can I use "undrivable" in a sentence?

"Undrivable" is used to describe a vehicle that is not in a condition to be driven. For example, "After the accident, the car was "undrivable"".

What is a good alternative to "undrivable"?

Alternatives include "inoperable", "immobilized", or "not roadworthy", depending on the specific context.

What makes a vehicle "undrivable"?

A vehicle can be considered "undrivable" due to various reasons, such as severe mechanical damage, missing essential components, or failing to meet safety standards.

Is it correct to say a person is "undrivable" if they are impaired?

No, it is not correct. "Undrivable" describes the condition of a vehicle, not a person. Instead, use phrases like "impaired driver" or "unfit to drive" to describe a person's inability to drive safely.