can be cited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be cited" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in academic or formal contexts to indicate that a source or piece of information is valid and can be referenced in a work. Example: "The research findings from the study can be cited in your thesis to support your argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They can be cited for disorderly conduct.

The New York Times

Naturally, there are many other examples that can be cited.

The New York Times - Arts

I don't care how many scheduling conflicts can be cited.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet no evidence for spontaneous generation now can be cited.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Deaton's work can be cited by both sides of the markets-versus-intervention debate.

The New Yorker

"I support some creativity in figuring out what can be cited to give us useful context.

The New York Times

But per-instance violations can be cited only where the agency has specific standards.

The New York Times

Other specific historical instances of federal government action to regulate interstate commerce can be cited.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Four functions of the mechanical engineer, common to all branches of mechanical engineering, can be cited.

Encyclopedia Britannica

George Will's readiness to turn a sow's ear into a silk purse can be cited as world-class sycophancy. . . .

The New Yorker

But, while precedents can be cited for Augustus' various powers, their concentration and tenure were absolutely unparalleled.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be cited" in academic writing, always ensure that the source you are citing is credible and relevant to your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "can be cited" in casual or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "can be used" or "is mentioned" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be cited" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility of referencing or quoting a source. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its common use in academic and formal contexts to denote that information is valid and suitable for supporting arguments or claims.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

4%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be cited" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signals the validity and suitability of a source for referencing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it commonly appears in formal academic, scientific and news contexts. While highly appropriate for scholarly writing, it should be used sparingly in casual conversation. Remember always to properly credit your sources when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be referenced

Direct synonym, focusing on the act of referencing.

may be referenced

Indicates the possibility of using something as a reference. More formal and emphasizes the act of referencing.

is quotable

Implies the material is worth quoting due to its importance or relevance. Slightly less formal.

may be invoked

Suggests something can be called upon or used for support, often in a legal or formal context.

is supportable by

Highlights the ability to support an argument or statement with evidence. More specific in its application.

can be substantiated

Emphasizes that something can be proven or verified. More focused on validation.

is demonstrable

Suggests something can be shown or proven through evidence. Focuses on the clarity of the proof.

can be documented

Focuses on the availability of written records or evidence.

is verifiable

Indicates that something can be checked for accuracy or truth.

is attributable to

Highlights the origin or source of something. More about giving credit.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be cited" to indicate that a particular source or piece of information is valid and suitable for referencing in academic or formal writing. For example: "The research findings "can be cited" to support the hypothesis."

What are some alternatives to "can be cited"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "can be referenced", "may be invoked", or "is supportable by".

Is there a difference between "can be cited" and "can be referenced"?

While both phrases are similar, "can be cited" is generally used in formal contexts to emphasize the act of giving credit to a specific source. "Can be referenced" is a broader term that simply means something can be used as a reference.

In which types of writing is "can be cited" most appropriate?

"Can be cited" is most appropriate in academic papers, research reports, legal documents, and other formal writing where proper attribution of sources is essential.