can be again

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be again" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express the idea of something being able to happen again, but it lacks clarity and proper structure. Example: "This event can be again if we plan it properly next year."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It always has been and it can be again".

Independent

At least that's what we can be again.

The New York Times

Peace has been won in Sudan through negotiations and can be again.

The New York Times

Privatisation of established rail lines has been successful before and can be again.

The Economist

I know I was almost there and I can be again".

Independent

"It was the best agency in the world, and it can be again".

The New York Times

It was special when I was there and can be again.

The Guardian - Sport

And that is as it should be, and as it can be again.

The New York Times

Please, Mr. President, be the fighter, the hero you have been in the past and can be again.

The New York Times

It's important today to be in front of Ferrari, and I hope we can be again tomorrow".

Independent

It's a complete non-sequitur of course ("Carthage was once great, so it can be again"), but mighty seductive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and grammatical accuracy, replace "can be again" with more precise alternatives like "can happen again" or "can be repeated".

Common error

Be cautious of using "can be again" as it often introduces unnecessary repetition. Instead, streamline your sentence by using a single, direct verb phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be again" typically functions as part of a verb phrase, indicating the potential for a recurrence or repetition of a state or action. However, as Ludwig AI points out, it is often considered grammatically awkward and can be replaced with more precise alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be again" expresses the possibility of a recurrence, but is often considered grammatically awkward and is best replaced with clearer alternatives. While frequent in news, media, and scientific contexts, as shown by Ludwig, its use should be carefully considered in formal writing. Ludwig AI highlights its disputed grammatical correctness, suggesting options like "can happen again" or "can be repeated" for improved clarity and impact. Therefore, while usage is common, prioritizing grammatical precision will enhance your writing's overall effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can happen again

Replaces "be" with the more direct verb "happen", clarifying the action being repeated.

can occur again

Uses "occur" instead of "happen", providing a slightly more formal alternative with the same core meaning.

can be repeated

Emphasizes the action of repetition directly, focusing on the ability to repeat something.

can be done again

Highlights the possibility of redoing or replicating an action or task.

can be replicated

Focuses on the possibility of creating an exact copy or recurrence of something.

can return

Implies a comeback or a return to a previous state or condition.

can be restored

Suggests bringing something back to its original condition, implying a previous loss or damage.

can be revived

Indicates bringing something back to life or activity after a period of dormancy or decline.

can be re-established

Emphasizes the act of setting something up again, often after a disruption or removal.

can be renewed

Suggests refreshing or making something new again, often in the context of contracts or agreements.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "can be again" for better clarity?

Consider using alternatives like "can happen again", "can occur again", or "can be repeated" depending on the specific context.

Is "can be again" grammatically correct in formal writing?

While frequently used, "can be again" is often considered grammatically awkward. Opt for clearer and more direct phrasing to enhance the professionalism of your writing.

What is a more concise way to express the idea of something happening again?

Instead of "can be again", try using "can return" or "can be restored" for a more streamlined and impactful sentence.

When might it be acceptable to use "can be again", if ever?

While generally discouraged in formal contexts, "can be again" might appear in informal speech or writing where a slightly repetitive emphasis is intended, though clearer alternatives are almost always preferable.