be grasped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be grasped" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the understanding or comprehension of a concept or idea. Example: "The main idea of the article can be grasped with careful reading and analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Since beings cannot attain such wisdom, reality as such cannot be grasped.

SEP

It can't be grasped.

The Guardian - Books

This opportunity needs to be grasped.

The Economist

But basics can be grasped.

The New York Times - Travel

They can't be grasped by the mind".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

'Lulu' cannot be grasped through a prefabricated image".

The New York Times

But it's a genuine opportunity to be grasped.

The Guardian - Tech

This point must be grasped in a flash of recognition.

The New Yorker

But there are other terms that must be grasped to attain an A* in the subject.Satisfactory.

The Economist

Literature, he argues, is "a collective system that should be grasped as such".

The New York Times - Books

But now that they have declared their support and cooperation, they should be grasped.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be grasped" in your writing, ensure the subject clearly indicates what is being understood or seized. For example, "The opportunity should be grasped" is clearer than "It should be grasped."

Common error

While "be grasped" is grammatically correct, excessive use of the passive voice can make your writing sound weak or unclear. Consider rewriting the sentence in the active voice where appropriate to improve clarity and impact. For instance, instead of "The concept must be grasped by the students", try "The students must grasp the concept."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be grasped" primarily functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that something is capable of being understood or seized. Ludwig's examples show it used to describe concepts, opportunities, or even physical objects that can be taken hold of. It indicates a potential for comprehension or utilization.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be grasped" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive verb phrase that signifies the potential for understanding or seizing something. Ludwig, supported by a multitude of real-world examples, confirms its usability across various contexts, predominantly in science, news and media. While primarily neutral to formal in register, writers should remain mindful of passive voice overuse, opting for active constructions for improved clarity and impact when appropriate. The phrase is found across authoritative sources, indicating its acceptability in formal writing. Given its versatile nature, understanding the subtle differences between it and phrases like ""be understood"" or ""be seized"" can enrich writing and ensure the intended message is effectively conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be understood

Focuses on general comprehension or clarity.

be comprehended

Implies a thorough and complete understanding.

be apprehended

Highlights the act of seizing or capturing, both physically and mentally.

be seized

Emphasizes the act of taking hold of something, often an opportunity.

be taken advantage of

Focuses on utilizing an opportunity, potentially with a negative connotation.

be capitalized on

Highlights the act of turning something into an advantage.

be internalized

Implies a deep and personal understanding, becoming part of one's beliefs.

be assimilated

Focuses on integrating new information into existing knowledge.

be fathomed

Implies uncovering a mystery or something difficult to understand.

be deciphered

Highlights the act of unraveling a complex code or message.

FAQs

How can I use "be grasped" in a sentence?

The phrase "be grasped" is typically used to describe the act of understanding a concept or seizing an opportunity. For example, "The main idea of the article can "be understood" with careful reading" or "The opportunity to expand the business should "be seized"."

What are some alternatives to "be grasped"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like ""be understood"", "be comprehended", ""be seized"", or "be taken advantage of" as alternatives to "be grasped".

Is it better to use "be grasped" or "grasp" in a sentence?

The choice between "be grasped" and "grasp" depends on whether you want to emphasize the receiver or the actor of the action. "Be grasped" is passive, focusing on what is being understood or seized, while "grasp" is active, focusing on who is understanding or seizing it.

What does it mean when something cannot "be grasped"?

When something cannot "be grasped", it means that it is difficult or impossible to understand or comprehend. It could also mean that an opportunity is out of reach or cannot "be attained".