can be argued

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be argued" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to present a point of view or opinion that is open to debate or discussion. Example: "It can be argued that climate change is the most pressing issue of our time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It can be argued the other way round.

The Economist

West Indies, it can be argued, has been lucky.

The New York Times - Sports

The Cooke affair can be argued to a stalemate.

The New York Times - Arts

But even here, an extenuating case can be argued.

The New York Times - Arts

It can be argued that Clinton exemplifies the relationship.

The Guardian

Of course, the opposite case can be argued.

The New York Times

That at least can be argued against, informatively.

The Guardian - Opinion

It can be argued that this shift is already underway.

The New York Times

It can be argued that structural biology could play a very important role in systems biology.

Current Opinion in Structural Biology

That tradition can be argued to limit, but also expand human horizons and potentialities.

University of California, Berkeley

High-end cars or organic foods, it can be argued, are safer or healthier than alternatives.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be argued" to introduce a perspective, but always provide supporting evidence or reasoning to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions like "can be argued", as it can weaken your writing. Opt for active voice when appropriate to create a more direct and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be argued" functions as a modal expression indicating that a statement is a proposition or opinion open to debate or discussion. It is a hedge, softening the assertion and inviting consideration of alternative viewpoints. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

29%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be argued" is a versatile phrase used to introduce debatable points or alternative perspectives. It functions as a modal expression that softens assertions, inviting critical thinking across diverse contexts. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, as exemplified by the numerous examples from various sources. Its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for academic, scientific, news, and business environments. When writing, remember to provide supporting evidence when using "can be argued" and to avoid overusing passive constructions for a more engaging tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is arguable that

Rephrases the sentence structure while retaining the core meaning of possibility and debate.

can be contended

Replaces "argued" with "contended", implying a more assertive or forceful assertion.

one could argue that

Introduces a subject to the sentence to create a more impersonal and objective perspective.

can be asserted

Substitutes "argued" with "asserted", suggesting a confident but potentially unsupported claim.

the argument can be made that

Emphasizes the presence of an existing argument or case to be presented.

can be maintained

Replaces "argued" with "maintained", implying a sustained or defended position.

can be posited

Substitutes "argued" with "posited", suggesting a proposed idea or theory for consideration.

it is open to debate whether

Highlights the controversial or uncertain aspect of the subject under consideration.

can be claimed

Replaces "argued" with "claimed", implying a statement of fact that may or may not be true.

it is a matter of opinion whether

Underscores the subjective nature of the issue, highlighting that different perspectives exist.

FAQs

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

Use "can be argued" to introduce a point of view that is debatable. For example, "It "can be argued" that stricter environmental regulations are necessary for a sustainable future."

What can I say instead of "can be argued"?

You can use alternatives like "can be contended", "can be asserted", or "it is arguable that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be argued" or "can be argue"?

"Can be argued" is correct. The past participle "argued" should be used after the auxiliary verb "be".

What's the difference between "can be argued" and "is argued"?

"Can be argued" suggests a possibility or potential for debate, while "is argued" implies that the point is already being actively debated or asserted by someone.