can be cleansed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be cleansed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing purification, cleaning, or removing impurities from something. Example: "The water can be cleansed through a filtration process to ensure it is safe for drinking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

You can be cleansed, you can be purged and you can be ready for life.

The New York Times

It is a deliberately overstated but hardy opulence, built for parties without permission (the sins of which can be cleansed with yellow Handi Wipes and pump-action Fantastik).

The New York Times

He is referring to the method whereby recruits to the Cause can be cleansed of whatever faults and stains continue to foul their existence — nagging Freddie about his "past failures" and calling him a "silly animal".

The New Yorker

"Naples, too, can be cleansed of the Camorra, I have no doubts.

BBC

Scientology was founded in the 1950s by American sci-fi author L. Ron Hubbard, who taught that our fears, insecurities, and psychosomatic illnesses can be cleansed by better connecting with our souls, which are extraterrestrial in origin.

Vice

5 8 It is well known that viruses and bacteria can be cleansed from hands by washing with soap 9 14 or other cleansers.

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Both merchants and consumers say that purging the closet and buying castoffs can be cleansing for the soul.

The New York Times

Yes, in some cases those instant expressions of solidarity become tainted with something darker: assertions of national identity in the face of assault can rarely be cleansed of all traces of jingoism.

The Guardian - Opinion

Though they can essentially be cleansed from the skin, the procedure is painful and an outline is often visible to the keen eye after removal.

Huffington Post

Nuland writes, "Modern dying takes place in the modern hospital, where it can be hidden, cleansed of its organic blight, and finally packaged for modern burial.

The Guardian - Books

Sherwin B. Nuland, in his 1994 best-seller, "How We Die," wrote, "Modern dying takes place in the modern hospital, where it can be hidden, cleansed of its organic blight, and finally packaged for modern burial".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "can be cleansed" with stronger verbs like "purified" or "detoxified" when the specific process of cleaning is relevant. This adds precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "can be cleansed" excessively in metaphorical or abstract contexts where the act of cleansing is not literal. Overusing it can weaken the impact.

Linguistic Context

Passive Voice Verb Phrase: The phrase "can be cleansed" functions as a passive voice verb phrase, indicating that the subject receives the action of being cleansed. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

24%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be cleansed" is a grammatically correct and commonly used passive verb phrase that describes the potential for something to be purified or freed from impurities. As noted by Ludwig AI, it fits seamlessly into various contexts, ranging from literal cleaning processes to metaphorical or spiritual purification. While versatile, writers should be mindful of overuse in purely metaphorical contexts. When in doubt, consider stronger verbs such as "purified" or "detoxified" for increased precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be purified

Replaces "cleansed" with "purified", emphasizing the removal of contaminants or impurities.

can be sanitized

Focuses on making something hygienic or free from bacteria.

can be detoxified

Specifically refers to the removal of toxins.

can be decontaminated

Implies the removal of hazardous substances or radiation.

can be disinfected

Focuses on eliminating germs and pathogens.

can be absolved

Indicates forgiveness or release from blame or sin.

can be redeemed

Suggests being saved from a negative condition.

can be rinsed

Implies washing something with water to remove residue.

can be washed

A general term for cleaning with water and often soap.

can be scrubbed

Implies a more forceful cleaning action.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be cleansed" to describe something that is able to be purified or rid of impurities. For example, "The water can be cleansed through a filtration system" or "The soul can be cleansed through spiritual practices".

What are some alternatives to "can be cleansed"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "can be purified", "can be sanitized", or "can be detoxified".

Is "can be cleansed" formal or informal?

"Can be cleansed" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more technical terms might be preferred in highly formal or scientific writing.

What is the difference between "can be cleansed" and "can be cleaned"?

While both phrases imply the removal of dirt or impurities, "can be cleansed" often suggests a more thorough or spiritual purification, whereas "can be cleaned" is a more general term for removing dirt or debris.