a gun can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a gun can" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to discuss the capabilities or effects of a gun in various contexts, such as safety, law enforcement, or self-defense. Example: "A gun can serve as a means of protection in dangerous situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But criminals determined to acquire a gun can do so with relative ease.

The Economist

Before a gun can be melted down, there is plenty of paperwork.

The New York Times

Every other part of a gun can be legally bought at a gun shop.

The New York Times

But that same boy with a gun can be a lethal threat.

The New York Times

The result is that a gun can fire even in the absence of oxygen, such as on the Moon.

Cornell University

"It really is a myth that a good guy with a gun can stop a bad guy with a gun," he said.

Columbia University

Scarcely a gun can boom along its surface, even in remotest seas, but the echo is heard almost instantaneously in Europe.

The Economist

All I care about is can you carry a gun, can you walk the post, as far as people in my unit.

The New Yorker

"In the realm of that discussion," he continued, "some people say that a good guy with a gun can stop a bad guy with a gun.

The New York Times

Even if a student with a gun can use it to defend against a mass murderer, it's hardly clear that anyone, including the armed student, is made safer.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A given bullet from a given gun can pierce a bulletproof vest.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing firearms, be specific about the type of gun to provide clarity and avoid generalizations. For instance, instead of saying "a gun can be dangerous", specify "a handgun can be easily concealed".

Common error

Avoid making broad statements about what "a gun can" do without considering the specific context or type of firearm. Different types of guns have varying capabilities and uses, and it's important to reflect these differences in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gun can" typically functions as the subject of a sentence followed by a modal verb expressing possibility or capability. Ludwig's examples show this across news reports, academic papers, and lifestyle articles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a gun can" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to describe the capabilities and potential consequences associated with firearms. As Ludwig's analysis shows, this phrase is frequently found in news reports, academic discussions, and even lifestyle articles. The phrase itself is neutral in register, but the context in which it is used often deals with sensitive topics such as gun violence, self-defense, and legal regulations. While perfectly acceptable in English, writers should remain aware of the potential impact of this phrase and select the most appropriate alternatives to avoid causing offense. The analysis of similar phrases highlights the variety of ways to express the same concepts, offering writers flexibility in their choice of words.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firearm is able to

Replaces "gun" with "firearm" and uses "is able to" to express capability.

a weapon is capable of

Substitutes "gun" with "weapon" and employs "is capable of" to indicate potential.

firearms have the potential to

Uses the plural "firearms" and "have the potential to" to convey a similar meaning.

a sidearm is able to

Replaces "gun" with a more specific term "sidearm".

a handgun is capable of

Replaces "gun" with "handgun" to specify the type of firearm.

a rifle is able to

Replaces "gun" with "rifle" to specify the type of firearm.

a pistol is able to

Replaces "gun" with "pistol" to specify the type of firearm.

a weapon can potentially

Adds "potentially" to emphasize the possibility.

a gun has the power to

Uses "has the power to" to indicate the ability of a gun.

a gun is designed to

Focuses on the intended function or design of a gun.

FAQs

How to use "a gun can" in a sentence?

The phrase "a gun can" introduces a potential action or capability of a firearm. For example, "a gun can be used for self-defense", or "a gun can inflict serious harm".

What are some alternatives to "a gun can"?

You can use alternatives like "a firearm is able to", "a weapon is capable of", or "firearms have the potential to" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "a firearm can" instead of "a gun can"?

"A firearm can" is generally more formal and precise. "A gun can" is more common in everyday language. The choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality.

In what contexts is it best to avoid using the phrase "a gun can"?

In situations where sensitivity is required, such as discussing gun violence or tragedies, it's advisable to use more neutral language. Consider focusing on the events or the impact rather than the capabilities of the weapon.