we are unable to

USAGE SUMMARY

"we are unable to" is correct and can be used in written English.
This construction can be used to indicate that a certain action cannot be performed. For example: "We are unable to provide a refund for this item."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We are unable to agree.

Harvard University

Regretably, we are unable to agree.

Cornell University

We are unable to deliver to P.O.

The New Yorker

"I regret we are unable to pay".

The New York Times

We are unable to verify ANI's claims.

The Guardian

"We are unable to say anything".

The New York Times

We are unable to function alone.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

However, we are unable to provide anyone with full support.

Cornell University

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer CEUs at this time.

University of California, Berkeley

Unfortunately, we are unable to process refunds after that date.

University of California, Berkeley

We are unable to yield our assent to this argument.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are unable to", clearly state the reason for the inability to maintain transparency and provide context.

Common error

While "we are unable to" is correct, avoid overuse by varying your language. Use alternatives like "we cannot", "we are not equipped to", or "it is beyond our capabilities" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are unable to" functions as a declarative statement expressing a lack of capacity or possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is grammatically sound and frequently employed. Examples from Ludwig show it used to decline requests, explain limitations, or express an inability to perform a specific action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

44%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are unable to" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate a lack of ability or capacity to perform a certain action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread application across various contexts. It is most frequently found in academic and news sources, suggesting a neutral to formal tone. While effective, it's important to vary your language and provide context to avoid overuse. Alternatives like "we cannot" or "it is beyond our capabilities" can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we cannot

Uses a more direct and common contraction, replacing "are unable" with "cannot".

we are not capable of

Emphasizes a lack of inherent capacity or skill.

it is beyond our capabilities to

Highlights that the task exceeds the group's abilities.

we lack the capacity to

Focuses on the absence of necessary resources or potential.

we are not in a position to

Suggests external constraints or circumstances prevent the action.

we are restricted from

Indicates an external rule or regulation prohibits the action.

we are prevented from

Highlights an external force or obstacle blocking the action.

we find it impossible to

Emphasizes the subjective difficulty or insurmountable nature of the task.

we are not equipped to

Highlights the lack of necessary tools, knowledge, or resources.

we are unequipped to

A shorter more direct synonym of "we are not equipped to".

FAQs

What can I say instead of "we are unable to"?

You can use alternatives like "we cannot", "we are not capable of", or "it is beyond our capabilities" depending on the context.

Is "we are unable to" formal or informal?

The phrase "we are unable to" is generally considered neutral to formal. It is suitable for both professional and academic contexts.

How to use "we are unable to" in a sentence?

Use "we are unable to" to politely decline a request or explain why something cannot be done. For example, "We are unable to process refunds after that date."

What is the difference between "we are unable to" and "we are unwilling to"?

"We are unable to" implies a lack of capability or means, while "we are unwilling to" indicates a choice not to do something. "We are unwilling to" suggests a deliberate decision.