can't attend vs unable to attend

Both "can't attend" and "unable to attend" are correct and are commonly used English phrases. They both convey the same meaning of not being able to go to an event or meeting. The choice between the phrases depends on personal preference or the formality of the situation.

Explained by Miss E.
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: February 19, 2025 • 6347 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that someone is unable to go to an event or meeting.

"can't attend"

This phrase is informal and widely used in everyday conversations. It is a straightforward way to express that you are not able to attend something.

Examples:

I can't attend the meeting tomorrow.
She can't attend the wedding due to a prior commitment.
They can't attend the concert because of a scheduling conflict.

Show examples from the web [+]

Although I can't attend myself, it looks like a great opportunity to explore new dimensions in crochet art.
Sadly, I can't attend, as I'm expecting some rather important guests of my own this afternoon but do have fun.
First, let's get you an MRI, make sure there are no other issues, but while we await the results, I see no reason why the maid of honor can't attend the wedding of Ms. Toots Newberg.
Shame you can't attend.
They must have a turn to explain to the children why they can't attend the Technical College down the hill.
On the reservations for a room an entry is needed, before to arrive on the Hostel. If the reservation person can't attend the reservation, the entry money will be losed (the half of the ammount)
What if I have won a Platinum Pass but can't attend the live event?
He passes away and you can't attend his funeral.
Sorry I can't attend in person.
Now, obviously, I will derive a certain amount of pleasure from that, seeing as I can't attend to you myself.
Actually, a few slacking sisters didn't make study hours this week so they unfortunately can't attend the Spirit Social tomorrow night.
And as for you, it's true I can't attend to you here and now as I'd like.
Who does that woman think she is, deciding who can and can't attend her son's birthday party?
You can't give to someone else your reserved place for special activities such as ROMAN HOLIDAY, LA DOLCE VITA and MEET&GREET. If you can't attend these special activities your place will remain vacant, sorry.
The kind of guys who check leases or the guys who throw parties the guys checking leases can't attend 'cause they're home checking leases?
She can't attend services bareheaded.
If you can't attend the UB-sponsored Expo, you'll want to sign up for Ultimate Bet's poker room.
Now, obviously, I will derive a certain amount of pleasure from that, seeing as I can't attend to you myself.
She wants to shake my nerves to pieces so I can't attend to my business anymore.
No, Valerie can't attend to you, she no longer works here.

Alternatives:

unable to come
not able to make it
won't be able to attend
unable to go
unable to be there

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to convey the message of not being able to go to an event or meeting.

"unable to attend"

This phrase is slightly more formal compared to "can't attend" and is often used in written communication or professional settings.

Examples:

I am unable to attend the conference next week.
She is unable to attend the party due to a family emergency.
They are unable to attend the event because of travel restrictions.

Show examples from the web [+]

The webinars will be recorded for future listening for those individuals unable to attend.
If you are unable to attend, you will be reimbursed as follows:
All members of the Council unable to attend may be represented.
Cicero is regrettably ill and unable to attend this session.
Mr President, I should like to apologise on behalf of Mr Byrne, who is unable to attend this important debate on healthy food due to previous commitments.
Unfortunately... d'Artagnan is unable to attend.
Cicero is regrettably ill and unable to attend this session.
Demand where I find myself unable to attend.
I of course, am unable to attend.
Regrettably, I'm unable to attend your engagement soiree next weekend.
It would be inconceivable if Parliament were unable to attend.
Deterioration can be very quick and they may be unable to attend to their business affairs.
Any member of the Council of Ministers unable to attend may be represented.
Mr Barón Crespo, you were unable to attend the Conference of Presidents last Thursday.
Due to this, he has been unable to attend regular classes.
I pre-registered and I'm unable to attend.
St Thérèse of Lisieux was unable to attend a university or engage in systematic study.
A few felt unable to attend.
He has been invited to this but is, unfortunately, unable to attend in person.
Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, Mrs Ferrero-Waldner is unable to attend this meeting.

Alternatives:

not able to attend
unable to make it
unable to go
unable to be there
unable to come

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can't attend vs unable to attend

"can't attend"

"unable to attend"

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