can be characterized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be characterized" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when describing or defining something, or when discussing its qualities or characteristics. Example: The social media campaign can be characterized as successful, due to its high engagement rates and positive reception from users.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Now California can be characterized by its stylistic diversity.

The New York Times - Food

Not all encounters with sharks can be characterized as "attacks".

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is no way it can be characterized now as pre-emptive".

The New York Times

Her husband has bipolar disorder, a mental illness that can be characterized by extreme mood swings.

The New York Times

Some of them can be characterized as natural, while others are clearly not, he said.

The New York Times - Food

"At times," he told the paper, "American warfare can be characterized by an overwhelming arrogance".

The New York Times

The changes he outlines can be characterized by what he calls a paradoxical combination of "prudence and boldness".

The New Yorker

Many areas of law can be characterized as both "set aside" and regulatory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Its basic thrust can be characterized in four words: pound on a plank.

The New York Times - Arts

Broadly speaking, the two types of attention can be characterized as focal and automatic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

First, not all online learning can be characterized as failing its students.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be characterized" when you want to describe something in terms of its qualities, features, or typical attributes. It's particularly useful when presenting an accepted or common view of a subject.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive voice constructions like "can be characterized". While grammatically correct, excessive use can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Consider active voice alternatives for a more direct and impactful style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be characterized" functions as a modal passive construction. It indicates the possibility or ability to describe something in terms of its key features or qualities. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be characterized" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to describe or define something based on its qualities. Ludwig's analysis of numerous real-world examples reveals its prevalence across diverse fields, notably science, news media, and encyclopedias. While it's generally suitable for formal and neutral contexts, writers should be mindful of overusing passive voice and consider active voice alternatives for improved clarity. Related phrases like "may be described" or "could be defined" can offer subtle variations in meaning, enriching your writing. In essence, mastering the use of "can be characterized" allows for more nuanced and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be described

Replaces "can" with "may", suggesting possibility rather than capability.

could be defined

Substitutes "characterized" with "defined", focusing on a precise explanation.

might be portrayed

Uses "portrayed" instead of "characterized", implying a representation or depiction.

is amenable to description

Rephrases the concept to highlight the suitability for description.

lends itself to characterization

Emphasizes the ease or natural fit for characterization.

is susceptible to being characterized

Highlights the vulnerability or tendency to be characterized in a certain way.

can be classified

Replaces "characterized" with "classified", focusing on categorization.

is open to interpretation

Shifts the focus to the possibility of multiple characterizations.

can be regarded

Uses "regarded" instead of "characterized", suggesting a perspective or viewpoint.

is subject to characterization

Focuses on the requirement or inevitability of characterization.

FAQs

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

Use "can be characterized" to describe the qualities or attributes of a subject. For example, "The economic downturn "can be characterized" by rising unemployment and decreased consumer spending".

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

You can use alternatives like "may be described", "could be defined", or "might be portrayed" depending on the context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "can be characterized"?

While "can be characterized" is grammatically correct, using the active voice can often make your writing more direct and engaging. Consider whether rephrasing with an active verb would improve clarity and impact.

What's the difference between "can be characterized" and "can be described"?

While similar, "can be described" is a more general term, whereas "can be characterized" suggests a more detailed analysis focusing on specific traits or qualities.