can actually be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can actually be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the reality or truth of a statement, often in contrast to a misconception or assumption. Example: "Many people think that success is solely based on luck, but it can actually be achieved through hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Politics can actually be ours.

Independent

It can actually be detrimental to patients.

The New York Times

The universal shape can actually be retrograde.

Journal of Crystal Growth

This can actually be pretty fun.

University of California, Berkeley

It can actually be a long time.

The Guardian - Tech

It can actually be done quite easily.

The Guardian - Tech

That can actually be good for you.

The Washington Post

Some great writers can actually be nice people.

The New York Times - Books

And reading the dialogue can actually be delightful.

The New York Times - Arts

Sharing a language with America can actually be a constraint.

The Economist

Besides, being a star can actually be boring sometimes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can actually be" to introduce a surprising or unexpected truth to challenge preconceived notions.

Common error

Avoid using "can actually be" excessively, as it can weaken your writing. Opt for more direct language when the "actually" isn't necessary for emphasis or surprise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can actually be" functions as a modal phrase used to express possibility with an element of surprise or unexpectedness. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. It suggests that something is not just possible, but also perhaps contrary to initial assumptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can actually be" is a versatile modal phrase used to express possibility with a hint of surprise. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, from formal news articles to informal wikis. While it's valuable for introducing unexpected truths, avoid overuse to maintain writing clarity. Consider alternatives like "can truly be" or "can indeed be" for subtle variations in meaning. This guide provides practical advice and insights to effectively integrate "can actually be" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can truly be

Replaces "actually" with "truly", emphasizing the genuineness or authenticity of the statement.

can indeed be

Substitutes "actually" with "indeed", reinforcing the truth or validity of the statement.

can really be

Uses "really" instead of "actually" to highlight the unexpectedness or surprising nature of the statement.

can genuinely be

Replaces "actually" with "genuinely" to emphasize the sincerity or honesty of the statement.

can legitimately be

Substitutes "actually" with "legitimately" to emphasize the permissibility or lawfulness of the statement.

can realistically be

Emphasizes the practicality or feasibility of the statement using "realistically".

can technically be

Uses "technically" instead of "actually", focusing on the technical correctness or accuracy of the statement.

can essentially be

Replaces "actually" with "essentially" to highlight the fundamental or basic nature of the statement.

can virtually be

Substitutes "actually" with "virtually" to indicate that the statement is true in effect, though not necessarily in fact.

can effectively be

Emphasizes the practical result or outcome using "effectively".

FAQs

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

You can use "can actually be" to emphasize a surprising or unexpected possibility. For example, "Worries that seem negative "can actually be" beneficial in certain situations".

What are some alternatives to "can actually be"?

Alternatives include "can truly be", "can indeed be", or "can really be", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to use "can actually be"?

While not strictly redundant, overuse of "can actually be" can weaken your writing. Consider whether the "actually" adds meaningful emphasis or if it can be omitted for a more direct statement.

What's the difference between "can actually be" and "can possibly be"?

"Can actually be" suggests something is surprisingly true or real, while "can possibly be" indicates something is merely feasible or potentially true. "That "can actually be" good for you" implies it's surprisingly beneficial. "That can possibly be good for you" suggests only a chance of being beneficial.