What it means
切れない attaches to the masu-stem of a verb and means that someone cannot complete the action, usually because the amount, duration, or difficulty is too great. It often translates as “cannot finish” or “cannot do completely.” The expression focuses on reaching the end of an action, not simply on being unable to do the action at all.
Usage note
切れない in this grammar pattern is different from the ordinary negative form of 切る. The ordinary negative is 切らない, while 切れない is the negative potential form of 切る and can mean “cannot cut” when used with that verb. Context distinguishes the two meanings.
How to use it
私はこの量の料理を一人では食べ切れません。
I cannot finish eating this amount of food by myself.
私はこの量の料理を一人では食べ切れない。
I cannot finish eating this amount of food by myself.
