We can defend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "We can defend" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability or capacity to protect or support a position, argument, or entity. Example: "In this debate, we can defend our stance with solid evidence and logical reasoning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can defend ourselves".

The New York Times

"We can defend our case in the football bodies.

The Guardian - Sport

We can defend our vital interests in areas like financial services.

The New York Times

"We can defend our country and invest in health and wellness programs".

The New York Times

We can defend our extensive TV viewing today as providing as much education as it does entertainment.

The New York Times

We can defend self-reliance and personal freedom as counterarguments to providing health care to all, but in our hearts, if we know that we are rationalizing individual greed and selfishness, we are left diminished and vacant.

The New York Times

"We can defend better than that.

BBC

"We can defend production in France without costing one job in Slovenia … It makes me happy".

Forbes

We can defend our country; we do not need you".

Huffington Post

We can defend ourselves against the forces of silliness that confront us, and no bleeding is required.

Huffington Post

We have confidence we can defend it".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "We can defend" to express a capability or readiness to protect something, whether it's a physical entity, an idea, or a position. Ensure the context makes it clear what "we" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "We can defend" in contexts where the group you represent lacks the actual ability or resources to defend. Overstating your group's capabilities can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "We can defend" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing the ability or capacity to protect or support something. As Ludwig AI points out, it indicates a potential action that 'we' are capable of performing. It combines a pronoun, a modal verb, and a main verb to convey capability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "We can defend" is a versatile phrase used to express the ability or capacity to protect something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to formal business settings. When using this phrase, consider the scope of "we" and ensure it accurately reflects the group's capabilities. Alternatives like "We are capable of defending" and "We have the ability to defend" offer slightly different nuances, allowing for precise communication. The phrase is generally neutral in register, making it suitable for a wide range of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

We are capable of defending

Uses a more formal phrasing with "capable of" instead of the modal verb "can".

We have the ability to defend

Emphasizes the inherent ability to defend, using a more descriptive phrase.

We can safeguard

Replaces "defend" with the synonym "safeguard", implying a proactive protective measure.

We are in a position to defend

Indicates the current circumstances allow for defense.

We are equipped to defend

Stresses the preparedness and necessary equipment for defense.

We are able to protect ourselves

Focuses on the aspect of protection, implying self-reliance.

We possess the means to defend

Highlights the resources or methods available for defense.

We can withstand

Emphasizes resilience and the ability to endure an attack.

We can shield ourselves

Focuses on creating a barrier of protection around ourselves.

We can repel

Suggests the ability to drive back an attack or aggressor.

FAQs

How can I use "We can defend" in a sentence?

Use "We can defend" to express the ability or capacity to protect something. For example: "We can defend our interests in financial services" or "We can defend our country".

What are some alternatives to "We can defend"?

You can use alternatives like "We are capable of defending", "We have the ability to defend", or "We are able to protect ourselves" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "We can defend" or "We are able to defend"?

"We can defend" is generally more concise and direct. "We are able to defend" is slightly more formal and emphasizes the capability. The best choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

When should I use "We can defend ourselves" versus "We can defend it"?

Use "We can defend ourselves" when referring to self-protection. Use "We can defend it" when "it" refers to something else that needs protection, like a country, an idea, or a position.