can be caused

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be caused" is a grammatically correct and commonly used construction in written English.
It is typically used to describe a possibility or potential for something to occur as a result of a certain cause. Example: Poor diet and lack of exercise can be caused by a sedentary lifestyle and lead to various health problems.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Droughts can be caused by reduced precipitation.

The Guardian

In short, bad decisions can be caused by bad biology.

The Guardian

It can be caused by wearing heels too often.

The New York Times - Style

Many times, these sensations can be caused by unprocessed memories.

The New York Times

Congenital hydrocephalus also can be caused by prenatal toxoplasmosis infection.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Accidents can be caused by bad airports or air traffic control systems.

The New York Times

"We all know the damage that can be caused by one truck bomb.

The New York Times

This type of anemia can be caused by blood loss from the intestinal tract.

The New York Times - Health

But others are either invisible or can be caused by other health problems.

The New York Times

"Or it can be caused by psychological reasons, or a combination of neurological followed by psychological".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Frictional processes can be caused by malfunctions.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be caused", ensure the cause is clearly and logically linked to the effect. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

While "can be caused" is grammatically correct, overuse of the passive voice can make your writing sound weak and indirect. Consider using the active voice when appropriate to create more impactful sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be caused" functions as a passive construction indicating a potential causal relationship. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes something that is capable of being brought about by a certain factor or set of factors. This grammatical structure allows the speaker or writer to highlight the effect rather than the agent causing it.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

27%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be caused" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase employed to express potential causality. As Ludwig AI highlights, this construction is generally accepted and understood in English. The phrase is most frequently found in scientific and news media contexts, with a neutral register appropriate for both formal and informal communication. Remember to use the active voice to emphasize the agent responsible for the action, rather than the passive, which will keep the content direct and focused.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may result from

This alternative emphasizes the potential outcome or consequence of something.

might be attributed to

This phrase suggests a possible cause or origin, often with a degree of uncertainty.

could stem from

This option indicates that something originates or arises from a particular source.

is often linked to

This highlights a common association or connection between two things.

is sometimes due to

This alternative points to a reason or explanation for something, but not always.

is potentially generated by

This suggests a source or mechanism that could produce a particular effect.

can arise from

This indicates that something can emerge or develop from a specific situation or factor.

can be triggered by

This phrase denotes that something is initiated or set off by a particular stimulus.

is capable of producing

This emphasizes the ability of something to generate or create a specific outcome.

can be a consequence of

This alternative highlights that something is a result or effect of a particular cause.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "can be caused" to sound more active?

You can use active voice constructions such as "results from", "is due to", or "stems from" to make your sentences more direct. For example, instead of "The problem can be caused by poor planning", try "Poor planning results in the problem".

What is the difference between "can be caused by" and "is caused by"?

"Can be caused by" indicates a potential or possible cause, while "is caused by" suggests a definite and confirmed cause. Use "can be caused by" when you're discussing possibilities and "is caused by" when you're stating a proven fact.

Is it better to use "can be caused" or "may be caused" in formal writing?

Both "can be caused" and "may be caused" are suitable for formal writing. "May be caused" often implies a slightly higher degree of uncertainty compared to "can be caused".

What are some synonyms for "can be caused" that avoid passive voice?

Consider using phrases such as "arises from", "is a result of", or "originates from" to avoid the passive construction. These alternatives provide a more active and direct way to express causality.