can be commenced

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be commenced" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to describe an action that is able to be started or initiated. Here is an example sentence: "The construction of the new bridge can be commenced once all necessary permits have been obtained."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Rather unusually, there is some equality between claimant and defendant in death in libel because it is also the case that no action can be commenced against the estate of a deceased defamer if the person responsible for the libel dies before the verdict.

The Guardian

Subsequently, water flow around the tablet can be commenced and the changes in this distribution monitored.

Vibrational Spectroscopy

If lithium treatment does not provide a significant response, indomethacin can be commenced as second-line approach.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Chaston (2010) in his book has suggested that under the life cycle concept of an enterprise, a new chasm has to be crossed before the next stage of growth can be commenced.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

If lithium treatment does not provide a significant response, as second line approach indomethacin can be commenced, at a dose ranging from 25 to 75 mg at bedtime; based on the above remarks, caffeine can also be tried, alone or in combination with indomethacin.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Early recognition is critical so that appropriate management can be commenced.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The alternative is that research, which is of public-health importance, can never be commenced.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

In such cases only, going ahead without diagnostic validation may be justifiable, because the alternative is that research of public-health importance can never be commenced.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

If such resources are not allocated by the executive (i.e. by the relevant minister or one of their delegates) a communications project can not be commenced or continued.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

As advanced life support (ALS) by emergency medical services (EMS) can only be expected to be commenced several minutes after OHCA, timely initiation of basic life support (BLS) by lay bystanders is crucial to ensure a timely perfusion of the brain and other vital organs.

Annals of Intensive Care

For those fixed penalty offences that can only be tried in the magistrates' court, such a prosecution would have to be commenced within six months of the offence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be commenced", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being started and under what conditions. Avoid overuse in informal writing; simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "can be commenced" in casual contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "can start" or "can begin" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be commenced" functions as a modal passive verb phrase, indicating the possibility or permissibility of initiating an action. It is used to express that something is able to be started or allowed to begin. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

21%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be commenced" is a grammatically correct and relatively common modal passive verb phrase used to express the possibility or permission to start something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for formal contexts such as scientific, academic, or professional writing, while simpler alternatives are preferred for casual conversation. The phrase indicates that an action is eligible to begin, often contingent on specific conditions. While authoritative sources like The Guardian and various scientific journals utilize this phrase, writers should be mindful of the potentially overly formal tone in everyday contexts. It's crucial to consider factors such as target audience and source quality to maintain clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be initiated

Focuses on the start or introduction of a process or action.

can be started

A more direct and common way to express that something is able to begin.

may be launched

Implies a more formal or significant beginning, often used for projects or initiatives.

can be triggered

Suggests that something can be started by a specific event or condition.

can be enacted

Often used in legal or formal contexts, referring to the implementation of a law or rule.

can be undertaken

Emphasizes the action of beginning a task or project, highlighting commitment.

can be activated

Suggests bringing something into operation or making it functional.

can be implemented

Focuses on putting a plan or system into effect.

can be set in motion

Implies starting a series of events or a process.

is able to begin

A more verbose alternative, emphasizing the capability to start.

FAQs

How to use "can be commenced" in a sentence?

"Can be commenced" is used to indicate that an action or process is able to be started. For example, "The project "can be commenced" once the funding is approved."

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

You can use alternatives like "can be started", "can be initiated", or "can begin" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be commenced" or "can commence"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Can commence" is more active, while "can be commenced" is passive and emphasizes that something is able to be started by someone or something.

Is "can be commenced" too formal for everyday use?

Yes, "can be commenced" is generally more formal. In everyday conversation, simpler alternatives like "can start" or "can begin" are more appropriate.