can be caught

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be caught" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing the possibility of someone or something being captured or apprehended. Example: "In the wild, animals can be caught using various trapping techniques."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They can be caught anywhere," says Shaw.

The Guardian

"Tiger can be caught," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

He can be caught, overtaken, restrained.

The Guardian - Sport

With more careful management, more fish can be caught.

The Economist

Bull trout, rainbow trout and — unsurprisingly — whitefish, can be caught.

The New York Times

But they can be caught in this trap.

The Guardian

"There's too much danger that you can be caught".

The New York Times

Sometimes they can be caught in precisely the same pose.

The New York Times - Arts

You can be caught in traffic and be stressed.

The Guardian - Sport

Mackerel, anchovy, and plaice can be caught on the Black Sea shore.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the fewer that remain, the greater the certainty needed that nuclear miscreants can be caught.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be caught" to describe a potential negative outcome, consider adding context to clarify the consequences. For example, "Mistakes can be caught early, preventing larger problems later."

Common error

Avoid using "can be caught" excessively in passive voice, as it can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Rephrase sentences to use active voice whenever possible for clearer and more impactful communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be caught" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the possibility or ability of someone or something to be captured or apprehended. Ludwig examples showcase various contexts where this phrase is appropriately used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

23%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be caught" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to express the possibility of capture, apprehension, or detection. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and broad applicability across diverse contexts, from news reporting to scientific articles. While it's generally acceptable, being mindful of passive voice overuse can enhance writing clarity. As confirmed by Ludwig, "can be caught" is a very common expression, mostly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Encyclopedias. Considering alternatives like ""may be apprehended"" or ""could be captured"" can also improve writing precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be captured

Similar in meaning, but suggests a weaker possibility.

is able to be captured

Formal rephrasing, emphasizing ability over possibility.

might be captured

Similar to 'could be captured', indicating a lower probability.

can be apprehended

Focuses on the act of apprehension, often by law enforcement.

may be apprehended

More formal and legalistic alternative.

can be seized

Implies a more forceful or official act of taking into possession.

is liable to be caught

Indicates a higher probability or risk of being caught.

is subject to being caught

Emphasizes the condition or state of being vulnerable to capture.

is susceptible to being caught

Suggests a vulnerability or weakness that makes capture easier.

has the potential to be caught

Highlights the inherent possibility of capture.

FAQs

What does "can be caught" mean?

The phrase "can be caught" means there is a possibility of someone or something being captured, apprehended, or detected. It implies a potential risk or vulnerability.

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

You can use alternatives like "may be apprehended", "is liable to be caught", or "could be captured" depending on the context.

How to use "can be caught" in a sentence?

You can use "can be caught" in sentences like: "Fish can be caught in the river", "Errors can be caught during the review process", or "Criminals can be caught if they leave evidence behind".

What's the difference between "can be caught" and "can be apprehended"?

While both phrases are similar, "can be caught" is more general, referring to any form of capture. "Can be apprehended" is more formal and usually refers to capture by law enforcement or authority.