can be built

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be built" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
Example: A new bridge can be built to improve the flow of traffic through the city.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But trust can be built.

The Economist

Bridges can be built".

The New York Times - Books

The health reforms can be built upon.

The Economist

Early success can be built on.

The Economist

(5) It can be built very quickly.

The Economist

These franchises can be built".

The Guardian

It can be built again".

The New York Times

Military barracks can be built quickly.

The New York Times

Rome can be built in a day.

The New York Times

Those relationships can be built upon.

The New York Times

But safeguards can be built in.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be built", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being constructed or developed. This phrase works well when discussing tangible structures, systems, or abstract concepts that are gradually formed.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions with "can be built". While grammatically correct, excessive passive voice can make your writing sound indirect and less engaging. Consider rephrasing to use active voice where appropriate for a more direct and impactful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be built" functions as a passive construction indicating the potential or feasibility of constructing something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct way to express that something has the ability to be created or erected. The numerous examples Ludwig provides across various sources demonstrate its wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

41%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be built" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to indicate the possibility or capability of constructing something. As shown by Ludwig AI, this phrase appears very frequently in diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific literature, highlighting its adaptability and widespread acceptance. It is especially common in discussions about potential developments and feasibility. While useful, writers should be mindful of potential overuse of the passive voice and aim for a balanced and engaging writing style. This guide provides additional insights and alternatives to enhance clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is able to be constructed

Replaces "can" with "is able to" and "built" with "constructed", offering a more formal tone.

may be erected

Substitutes "built" with "erected", suggesting a more formal or architectural context.

is capable of being assembled

Replaces "can be" with "is capable of being" and "built" with "assembled", providing a more detailed and technical alternative.

can be created

Replaces "built" with "created", which is broader and applies to less tangible things.

is possible to build

Changes the structure to emphasize possibility rather than capability.

can be established

Replaces "built" with "established", which implies setting up or founding something.

can be formed

Offers a different verb with a broader meaning, suggesting shaping or creating.

is constructible

Condenses the phrase into a single adjective, changing the sentence structure.

can be developed

Substitutes "built" with "developed", implying a gradual or evolutionary process.

may be manufactured

Replaces "built" with "manufactured", appropriate for industrial or mass-produced items.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "can be built" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases like "is able to be constructed" or "may be erected", depending on the context.

What are some alternatives to "can be built" in a technical context?

In technical writing, consider using "is capable of being assembled" or "can be manufactured" for greater precision.

When is it better to use "can be created" instead of "can be built"?

"Can be created" is preferable when referring to something less tangible than a physical structure. For example, "can be created" is more appropriate for describing a plan, idea, or artwork, while "can be built" is better for describing a house or a bridge.

How does "can be built" differ from "is possible to build"?

"Can be built" implies a capability or feasibility, while "is possible to build" emphasizes the possibility. The choice depends on whether you want to stress the ability to construct something or the mere potential for its construction.