can be contemplated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be contemplated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ideas, concepts, or situations that are open to thought or consideration. Example: "The implications of this decision can be contemplated from various perspectives, leading to a deeper understanding of its impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

On Bosanquet's view, the aesthetic attitude is "contemplative"—it is a "preoccupation with a pleasant feeling, embodied in an object which can be contemplated" (Three Lectures, p. 10).

SEP

But it is an enormous improvement and creates a position from which eradication can be contemplated.

The Economist

But there's another lunar rock that can be contemplated in much more serene surroundings.

The Washington Post

A curious fixture scenario sees O'Neill's men face Estonia and Belarus before Germany and the Netherlands can be contemplated.

The Guardian - Sport

The sale can be contemplated because the city does, at least on paper, own the Detroit Institute's collection, though it paid for only some of it.

The New York Times - Arts

Those visages can be contemplated with far more sensuous contentment than the Egyptian queen's bulbous, knotty and eroded features stamped on gold coins from the first century B.C.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

It is inconceivable that the White House can be contemplating an invasion of Iran, and what must be intended is a US airstrike, or airstrikes, on Iranian nuclear installations, comparable to Israel's bombing of Iraq in 1981.

The Guardian

Fears about college can also be contemplated during this time".

The New Yorker

She pointed to clemency petitions, which can only be contemplated after an execution date is set.

The Washington Post

Through the erection of the wall I expose myself totally; my secret fears and anxieties can now be contemplated in all their nakedness.

The New York Times

It will still, however, take years of work before a vaccine that could end the epidemic, which has killed about 25 million people, can even be contemplated.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be contemplated", ensure that the subject of the sentence is something abstract, such as an idea, a plan, or a possibility, to maintain the appropriate level of formality and abstraction.

Common error

Avoid using "can be contemplated" in everyday situations where simpler alternatives like "can be considered" or "can be thought about" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be contemplated" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating possibility or permissibility in considering something. Ludwig's examples show it's used to suggest that a topic is open for thought, evaluation, or reflection, spanning contexts from philosophical attitudes to potential antiviral strategies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be contemplated" is a grammatically correct modal verb phrase indicating that something is open to consideration or deep thought. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in formal contexts such as science and news media, with a noticeable absence in informal settings. It is often used to present possibilities, options, or future actions, and while it's useful for introducing abstract concepts, remember it may be too formal for everyday conversation. Consider alternatives like "can be considered" or "can be thought about" in simpler situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be considered

Focuses on the act of thinking about something, similar to contemplating but with a broader application.

can be envisioned

Emphasizes the ability to form a mental image or concept, implying a more creative consideration.

can be reflected upon

Highlights the act of thoughtful consideration, often with a personal or introspective element.

can be entertained

Suggests the possibility of accepting an idea for discussion or thought, rather than necessarily deep reflection.

can be explored

Highlights the potential for investigation or examination, implying a more active process of discovery.

can be deliberated

Implies careful and thorough discussion or consideration, often in a formal setting.

can be assessed

Focuses on evaluating or judging the value or quality of something.

can be evaluated

Similar to assessed, but may involve a more formal or systematic process of examination.

can be analyzed

Focuses on detailed examination and interpretation of something, often with a focus on its components or structure.

can be examined

Similar to analyzed, but may imply a more general or less technical investigation.

FAQs

What does "can be contemplated" mean?

The phrase "can be contemplated" means that something is capable of being thought about deeply or considered carefully. It suggests an opportunity for reflection and thorough examination.

When is it appropriate to use "can be contemplated" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "can be contemplated" in formal writing or when discussing abstract concepts, complex issues, or potential future actions. For simpler situations, alternatives like "can be considered" or "can be thought about" may be more suitable.

What are some alternatives to "can be contemplated"?

Alternatives to "can be contemplated" include "can be considered", "can be envisioned", "can be explored", and "can be reflected upon". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "can be contemplated" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "can be contemplated" is generally considered too formal for everyday conversation. Simpler alternatives like "can be thought about" or "can be considered" are usually more appropriate in informal settings.