was not able to continue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was not able to continue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where someone or something could not proceed or carry on with an action or task. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, she was not able to continue her presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Frank, who had blood pouring from his face, was not able to continue.

The New York Times - Sports

John Hammerschmidt, the chief N.T.S.B. investigator, said Petty Officer Seacrest reported that "he was not able to continue his plotting".

The New York Times

He was asked again if there was anything about Game 3 that made him believe he was not able to continue.

The New York Times

"Yen pulled a muscle and was not able to continue.

BBC

He said he was "disappointed" Flybe was not able to continue with the route but was hopeful that EasyJet's operation "will be of sufficient scale to ensure it continues".

BBC

I was not able to continue classes.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But now DNAinfo reports that owner Pei Lin Liang has told the New York City council that "he wasn't able to continue the business", according to Paul Leonard, a spokesman for city councilwoman Margaret Chin, who had been helping Liang with his application.

The Guardian

"It was unfortunate I wasn't able to continue a career there, but that's the way rugby is.

BBC

"Jennison impressed during his loan spell last season and I was disappointed I wasn't able to continue that.

BBC

"He was hurt after 35 minutes, got through to half time but wasn't able to continue," boss Andy Sinton told BBC Radio Shropshire.

BBC

"We are obviously disappointed that he is not able to continue to his work with Chapter during these challenging days.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was not able to continue", ensure the context clearly indicates why the action could not be continued. Providing the reason adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, relying too heavily on passive constructions like "was not able to continue" can make your writing sound weak. Consider active alternatives where appropriate to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was not able to continue" functions as a verbal phrase expressing an inability to proceed with an action or activity. It's commonly used to describe situations where someone or something is prevented from carrying on, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples from news, science, and formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was not able to continue" is a versatile expression used to indicate the inability to proceed with an action or activity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While "was not able to continue" is acceptable, writers should be mindful of overuse and consider more active alternatives for enhanced clarity. The phrase is generally neutral and suitable for both formal and informal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could not proceed

Emphasizes the inability to move forward or advance in a process or activity. Slightly more formal.

was unable to proceed

Similar to "could not proceed" but maintains the original structure with "unable".

could not carry on

Focuses on the cessation of an activity or task, implying a continuation was expected.

was forced to stop

Highlights the element of external compulsion or necessity in halting the activity.

had to discontinue

Implies a formal or official cessation of something, such as a treatment or program.

ceased participation

Specifically indicates the end of involvement in a study, event, or activity.

reached a standstill

Emphasizes a complete cessation of movement or progress, often implying a problem or obstacle.

halted operations

Suggests stopping a formal operation, can be used in medical or business contexts.

couldn't go on

A more informal and colloquial way of expressing an inability to continue.

abandoned the attempt

Focuses on the deliberate act of giving up on an effort or goal.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "was not able to continue" in a sentence?

Use "was not able to continue" when describing a situation where someone or something could not proceed or carry on with an action or task due to a specific reason or circumstance. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

What are some alternative phrases to "was not able to continue"?

You can use alternatives such as "could not proceed", "was unable to proceed", or "could not carry on" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "was not able to continue" and "could not continue"?

"Was not able to continue" and "could not continue" are very similar. "Could not continue" is slightly more concise and direct, while "was not able to continue" adds a bit more emphasis on the inability or circumstances preventing continuation.

How can I make my writing sound more active instead of using "was not able to continue"?

To make your writing more active, rephrase the sentence to focus on the cause rather than the inability. For example, instead of "He was not able to continue due to the injury", try "The injury forced him to stop".