can be cleared

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'can be cleared' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing the possibility of an action or fact being resolved, or when discussing the possibility of an obstruction or confusion being removed. For example: "The misunderstanding between us can be cleared up if we discuss it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But this can be cleared up.

Independent

Anything in the diary can be cleared.

The Guardian - Music

Any other misunderstanding can be cleared up by a few more exchanges.

The New Yorker

But even if significant technical hurdles can be cleared, fuel cell cars are years away.

The New York Times

Yet where it matters, transposable elements can be cleared out of the human genome too.

The Economist

Yazidis, too, worry about moving back, even if Isis fighters and bombs can be cleared from their old homes.

The Guardian

If a clearinghouse decides that the swap can be cleared, then it can trade on an exchange.

The New York Times

First, there's Tuesday's full Moon to handle, when the air can be cleared and emotional baggage dumped.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Eventually, everything will collapse, when it can be cleared ready for the cycle to start again next spring.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The company still faces one more hurdle before it can be cleared to sell its version of the cancer drug.

The New York Times

Aberrant proteins that aren't folded up properly can form large clumps, or protein aggregates, that can be cleared by autophagy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be cleared" when you want to indicate the possibility of resolving a situation, removing an obstacle, or clarifying a misunderstanding. It's versatile and generally well-understood.

Common error

Avoid using "can be cleared" in situations that demand highly formal or technical language. In such cases, consider alternatives like "can be rectified" or "can be resolved" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be cleared" functions as a modal passive construction. The modal verb "can" indicates possibility or ability, while "be cleared" is the passive form of the verb "clear", suggesting that something is able to be resolved or removed. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be cleared" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression indicating the potential for resolution, removal, or clarification. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various domains, including science and news media. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives like "can be resolved" in highly formal settings. Remember, the specific context should guide your choice of the most appropriate phrasing. The phrase's high frequency and diverse application make it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be resolved

Focuses on solving a problem or dispute, implying a more formal resolution.

can be clarified

Emphasizes making something more understandable, suitable for ambiguities or misunderstandings.

can be removed

Highlights the act of taking something away, whether physically or metaphorically.

can be eliminated

Suggests a complete removal or eradication of something, often a problem or obstacle.

can be rectified

Implies correcting something that is wrong or deficient, often used in formal contexts.

can be straightened out

Suggests resolving a complicated or confused situation, often used informally.

can be sorted out

Similar to straightened out, but emphasizes organization and arrangement.

can be taken care of

Focuses on handling a task or problem, implying responsibility and action.

can be dealt with

Emphasizes addressing and managing a situation or issue.

can be discharged

Highlights the release or removal of something, often a duty or obligation.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be cleared" to express the possibility of something being resolved or removed. For example: "The misunderstanding "can be clarified" with better communication".

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

Alternatives to "can be cleared" include phrases like "can be resolved", "can be rectified", or "can be removed", depending on the specific context.

Is "can be cleared" formal or informal?

"Can be cleared" is generally considered neutral and can be used in a variety of contexts, but it is more appropriate for informal or neutral settings rather than highly formal ones.

What's the difference between "can be cleared" and "can be resolved"?

While both phrases suggest a solution to a problem, "can be cleared" implies removing an obstacle or confusion, whereas "can be resolved" suggests a more formal or complete solution to a dispute or issue.