we are unable to comment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are unable to comment" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that one cannot provide a statement or opinion on a particular matter, often due to policy or confidentiality reasons. Example: "Due to the ongoing investigation, we are unable to comment on the specifics of the case at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Twitter said: "We are unable to comment".

The Guardian - Tech

We are unable to comment further due to ongoing investigations".

The Guardian - Business

We are unable to comment further on this matter".

The Guardian

Due to strict privacy laws, we are unable to comment about individual patients".

Independent

A police investigation is underway so we are unable to comment further.

Independent

Until these investigations are concluded, we are unable to comment further".

The Guardian

"We are unable to comment further until this investigation has been completed".

The Guardian - Sport

"We are unable to comment on pending litigation," a spokeswoman for Gruner & Jahr said.

The New York Times

As the case is subject to ongoing legal action we are unable to comment further".

The Guardian

We are unable to comment further as this is an ongoing legal matter.

The Guardian

A government spokesman said: "A police investigation is underway, so we are unable to comment.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are unable to comment", ensure the reason for not commenting is understood, either explicitly stated or implied by context. This maintains transparency and avoids suspicion.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "we are unable to comment" without providing context. If you must decline to comment, vary your response or briefly explain why to avoid sounding evasive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are unable to comment" serves as a statement of refusal or inability to provide information or an opinion. As Ludwig AI states, this typically arises from confidentiality or policy restrictions, as seen in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are unable to comment" is a common and grammatically correct way to decline providing information or an opinion, often due to ongoing investigations, legal reasons, or confidentiality agreements. As Ludwig AI indicates, this refusal is widely used in different situations. While the phrase is very common across news, science, and business, it’s important to use it judiciously and provide context when possible to maintain transparency. Alternative phrases like "we cannot comment" or "we decline to comment" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we cannot comment

A more direct synonym, replacing "are unable" with "cannot" for brevity.

we are not in a position to comment

A slightly more formal way of expressing the inability to comment, emphasizing the lack of authority or suitability.

we decline to comment

Indicates a conscious decision not to comment, rather than an inability.

no comment

A concise and direct refusal to comment, often used in journalistic contexts.

we are unable to provide information

Focuses on the inability to share specific details, rather than a general statement.

we are restricted from commenting

Highlights external restrictions preventing comment.

we cannot disclose further details

Emphasizes confidentiality as the reason for not commenting.

we are not at liberty to say

A more indirect way of refusing to comment, suggesting a lack of permission.

we are refraining from comment

Highlights intentional holding back on comment.

it would be inappropriate for us to comment

Emphasizes the unsuitability of commenting due to ethical or procedural reasons.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "we are unable to comment"?

It's appropriate when you cannot provide information or an opinion due to confidentiality, ongoing investigations, legal reasons, or company policy. Ensure the context makes the reason clear.

What are some alternatives to "we are unable to comment"?

You can use phrases like "we cannot comment", "we decline to comment", or "no comment depending on the specific reason and context.

Is "we are unable to comment" the same as "we decline to comment"?

No, although similar, they differ slightly. "We are unable to comment" suggests an inability due to external factors, while "we decline to comment" implies a conscious choice not to comment.

How can I use "we are unable to comment" effectively in a sentence?

For example: "Due to the ongoing investigation, "we are unable to comment" on the specifics of the case at this time." Provide a brief explanation for the refusal to comment if possible.