can be compared

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be compared" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are comparing two or more things. For example, "His performance this year can be compared to last year's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Spiritually, human beings can be compared to onions.

WikiHow

Nothing can be compared.

The New Yorker

"Pop music can be compared to that.

The New York Times - Arts

"Nothing else can be compared to it".

The Guardian - Books

Additionally, these results can be compared.

Cornell University

Their specifications or prices can be compared quickly and easily.

The New York Times

Heroin can be compared to an infectious disease,' says Parker.

The Guardian

It can be compared to Poland 12 years ago".

The New York Times

Crime rates can be compared at www.ope.ed.gov/security/Search.asp.asp

The New York Times

Individuals get a score, which can be compared over time.

The Guardian

Additionally, design alternatives can be compared.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be compared", clearly state the basis of comparison to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The efficiency of solar panels can be compared based on their energy output per square meter."

Common error

Avoid using "can be compared" without specifying what is being compared and on what basis. Vague statements like "These results can be compared" lack clarity. Always include the criteria or aspects used for comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be compared" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility or permissibility of performing a comparison between two or more entities. Ludwig AI shows this phrase is commonly used in various contexts to suggest that a meaningful comparison is possible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

34%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be compared" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that indicates the potential for making a comparison between two or more items. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread application across various domains, including science, news, and academia. When using this phrase, it's crucial to specify the basis for comparison to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. The high source quality and expert rating further affirm its reliability and appropriateness in formal and informal writing contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is comparable to

A more direct and formal synonym.

can be likened to

Suggests a similarity or analogy between items.

can be related to

Indicates a connection or association.

can be paralleled with

Implies a side-by-side similarity.

may be contrasted

Focuses on highlighting differences rather than similarities.

can be contrasted

Emphasizes the differences between items.

is amenable to comparison

Highlights the suitability of something for comparison.

may be analogized to

Suggests a more abstract or figurative comparison.

is susceptible to comparison

Similar to "is amenable to comparison" but slightly more formal.

can be distinguished

Highlights the ability to see differences.

FAQs

How do I use "can be compared" in a sentence?

Use "can be compared" to indicate that two or more items share characteristics that allow for a meaningful comparison. For instance, "The two treatment approaches "can be compared" based on their success rates".

What alternatives are there to "can be compared"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "is comparable to", "can be likened to", or "may be contrasted".

What's the difference between "can be compared" and "must be compared"?

"Can be compared" indicates a possibility or permissibility of comparison, while "must be compared" suggests a necessity or obligation to compare. The choice depends on whether comparison is optional or required.

Is it correct to say "can be compare" instead of "can be compared"?

No, "can be compare" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is ""can be compared"", using the past participle form of the verb.