I'm not able to work vs I can't work

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey the same meaning, but 'I can't work' is more commonly used in everyday language.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 2542 views

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in everyday language.

"I'm not able to work"

This phrase is a polite and formal way to express that you are unable to work. It is suitable for professional or formal contexts.

Show examples from the web [+]

I'm not able to judge our work.
I'm not able to do any other work.
I'm sure we'll be able to work something out.
I'm just glad that we were all able to work together and get Henry home.
I have to say, I'm so relieved that we were able to work this out.
More people in work means more resources to build welfare solutions for people who are not able to work.
And I'm getting really tired of them and I want to be able to work out again.
He is, but what I'm saying is there's a lot of things that I wanted us to be able to work on.
Within this frozen world I'm able to work freely and unnoticed.
That maybe Master Antônio will not be able to work anymore.
I came into this hospital able to work.
To be able to work with Jason Voorhees and to see that mask...
I was able to work through some things.
We want a Commission which is able to work.
I am sorry but your Commission - as you propose it - will not be able to work.
I would very much hope to be able to work with the Petitions Committee to improve this.
And I haven't been able to work very much.
It's necessary to be able to work.
Maybe you'll be able to work out something.
NIKKl: Charlie and Amita were able to work some magic.

Alternatives:

I am unable to work
I cannot work
I am not capable of working
I am not in a position to work
I am not fit for work

This phrase is correct and commonly used in everyday language.

"I can't work"

This phrase is a more casual and direct way to express that you are unable to work. It is suitable for informal conversations or everyday situations.

Show examples from the web [+]

I can't work like that.
I can't work with this lot.
I can't work while those sounds are going on.
I can't work because of the reporters.
I can't work him if he's unconscious.
I can't work with garbage like this.
I can't work fast food, Emmet.
I can't work on my novel.
I can't work with people who would do this.
I can't work with her.
Martin, I can't work tonight.
I can't work, I need orbit room.
They help because I can't work.
And since I can't work in my office...
I can't work this case different from any other.
I can't work with one leg.
The kid is small so I can't work...
I can't work with this smell, man.
Well, I can't work with him.
I can't work on mother's day.

Alternatives:

I cannot work
I'm unable to work
I'm not capable of working
I'm not in a position to work
I'm not fit for work

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I'm not able to work vs I can't work