we are not able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are not able" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express an inability to do something or a limitation in capability. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are not able to fulfill your request at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are not able to eat.

The New York Times

"If we are not able..

The Washington Post

We are not able to get [sic] complete story".

The Guardian

We are not able to accept international students.

Harvard University

We are not able to offer prorated billing.

Cornell University

We are not able to scan bound items.

University of California, Berkeley

Unfortunately, we are not able to give any extensions.

Columbia University

Unfortunately, we are not able to answer personal medical questions.

Harvard University

"We are not able to draw any conclusions," Lebel said.

The New York Times - Magazine

"But we are not able to give them enough ammunition.

The New York Times

We are not able to make our borders respected and give security to the population".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When communicating negative news or limitations, follow "we are not able" with a clear and concise reason to maintain transparency and build trust.

Common error

Be specific about what "we are not able" to do and why. Vague statements can lead to confusion and frustration. For instance, instead of saying "we are not able to process your request", specify the reason: "we are not able to process your request due to incomplete documentation."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are not able" functions as a declarative statement expressing an inability or lack of capacity to perform a certain action. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its usage in various contexts. The phrase often precedes an explanation or a suggested alternative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

37%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are not able" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to indicate an inability or limitation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, further supported by numerous examples from reputable sources spanning news, academic, and scientific domains. While it is appropriate for general use, remember the context and audience; in more formal communications, consider using "we are unable". It is important to follow up with an explanation of the reason. Consider alternatives to soften the message like offering a different option or highlighting what "we can" do instead. In conclusion, "we are not able" is a valid and versatile phrase for conveying restrictions, but effective communication requires thoughtful consideration of register and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we cannot

This alternative is a contraction of "we cannot", providing a more concise way to express inability.

we are unable to

This alternative is a more formal and direct synonym, maintaining a similar level of politeness.

we lack the capacity to

This alternative highlights the absence of the necessary ability or resources.

it is beyond our capabilities

This alternative emphasizes that the task exceeds the group's or organization's abilities.

we are not equipped to

This alternative suggests a lack of the necessary tools or resources.

we have no means to

This alternative focuses on the absence of necessary resources or methods.

we are in no position to

This alternative indicates that the circumstances prevent the ability to perform an action.

we are restricted from

This alternative suggests an external limitation preventing action.

we are not authorized to

This alternative implies a lack of permission or authority to act.

we find ourselves incapable of

This alternative is a more formal and emphatic way of expressing inability.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we are not able" to sound more positive?

Instead of saying "we are not able", try focusing on what you can do. For example, use phrases like "we can offer" or "we are able to provide" to highlight alternative solutions.

What is a more formal alternative to "we are not able"?

A more formal alternative is "we are unable to". This phrase conveys the same meaning but with a slightly more professional tone.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we are not able to"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is commonly used to express an inability or lack of capability. The structure "we are + not + able + to + verb" is a standard construction in English.

What's the difference between "we are not able to" and "we cannot"?

The difference is subtle. "We cannot" is a more direct and concise way of expressing inability. "We are not able to" is slightly more formal and can sometimes soften the statement, depending on context.