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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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Can be overcome

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Can be overcome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a challenge or obstacle is surmountable or can be dealt with successfully. Example: "Despite the difficulties we face, I believe that all challenges can be overcome with determination and teamwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This can be overcome.

Things can be overcome.

However, some think this can be overcome.

News & Media

The Economist

Practically everything can be overcome.

"I don't believe this difficult history can be overcome overnight.

News & Media

The Guardian

"At certain moments, those things can be overcome".

News & Media

The New York Times

Stark is convinced the trust barrier can be overcome.

News & Media

The Guardian

These obstacles are formidable but can be overcome.

But these potential difficulties or roadblocks can be overcome.

News & Media

The New York Times

Officials at CERDEC say these drawbacks can be overcome.

News & Media

The Economist

"Many obstacles, but I think they can be overcome".

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be overcome" when you want to express optimism about resolving a problem or challenge. Ensure the context clearly defines what obstacle is being addressed.

Common error

Avoid using "can be overcome" in situations where the solution is trivially obvious. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound less sophisticated.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

84%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be overcome" functions as a passive construction indicating possibility or potential. It describes the ability to successfully deal with or resolve an obstacle. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use across various subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be overcome" is a versatile and commonly used expression to convey the possibility of successfully resolving a challenge or obstacle. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for a wide range of contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. While alternatives like "can be resolved" or "can be surmounted" exist, "can be overcome" offers a direct and optimistic way to express the potential for success. Remember to use the phrase in contexts where the challenge is clearly defined to maximize its impact.

FAQs

How to use "can be overcome" in a sentence?

The phrase "can be overcome" indicates that a problem or obstacle is not insurmountable. For example, "These challenges "can be overcome" with careful planning and dedication."

What can I say instead of "can be overcome"?

You can use alternatives like "can be resolved", "can be surmounted", or "can be addressed" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be overcome" or "could be overcome"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they convey different meanings. "Can be overcome" suggests a present or future possibility, while "could be overcome" implies a hypothetical or past possibility.

What's the difference between "can be overcome" and "is possible to overcome"?

"Can be overcome" is a more concise and direct way of saying "is possible to overcome". The former is generally preferred for its brevity and impact.

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Source & Trust

84%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: