can be contested

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be contested" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is open to dispute or challenge, such as an idea, decision, or claim. Example: "The results of the election can be contested if there are sufficient grounds for a challenge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Such a view can be contested.

Independent

But inevitably the comparisons can be contested.

The Economist

Inevitably the comparisons can be contested.

The Economist

And it can be contested by either or both parties.

The New York Times

Sales made by credit card can be contested.

The New York Times - Travel

They like to think there are real facts when, actually, nearly everything can be contested.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

What alternatives exist to these narratives, how can they be contested?" The exhibition included images of old South Asian melodramatic films photographed from a vintage TV screen.

Cornell University

I came to realise that power can only be contested with power, not by running amok and tossing dairy products around the streets.

The Guardian - Opinion

Those issues include whether Mr. Gore is really entitled to bring a contest lawsuit -- technically, only the electors for a candidate are on a presidential ballot -- and whether any presidential election can truly be contested under Florida law.

The New York Times

This means that if the police continue to refuse Ms. Gao access to a lawyer, they must, in theory, issue a written denial that they have done so, which can then be contested.

The New York Times

For thousands of years, there were robust cultural, political, and social exchanges between the two, leading Koreans to often claim they are the "people who know China best in the world," a point that can well be contested.

Johns Hopkins University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be contested", clearly state the grounds or reasons for the potential dispute to provide context and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "can be contested" as a generic qualifier without providing specific reasons or evidence. Always ensure there is a logical basis for the potential dispute.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be contested" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating that a particular statement, claim, or result is capable of being challenged or disputed. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples show its frequent use in expressing potential disagreement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be contested" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that effectively communicates the possibility of challenging or disputing a claim or statement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides ample real-world examples across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. While versatile, it's most effectively deployed when the grounds for dispute are clear. Alternatives such as "can be disputed" or "can be challenged" offer similar nuance and effectiveness, maintaining a formal and neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be challenged

Focuses on the act of challenging something, implying a direct confrontation or questioning.

can be disputed

Emphasizes disagreement and argument regarding the validity or truth of something.

is open to question

Highlights the uncertainty and doubt surrounding a particular issue or statement.

is subject to debate

Suggests that the topic is likely to be discussed and argued from different viewpoints.

can be called into question

Implies that doubts have been raised about the accuracy or validity of something.

is not definitive

Highlights the lack of a final or conclusive answer, leaving room for alternative interpretations.

can be refuted

Focuses on proving something to be false or incorrect through evidence and argument.

is debatable

Indicates that the subject is open to different opinions and perspectives.

is problematic

Highlights the presence of issues or difficulties with something, making it questionable.

can be opposed

Highlights the possibility of resistance or disagreement with a particular idea or action.

FAQs

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

Use "can be contested" to indicate that a statement, decision, or result is open to challenge or dispute. For example, "The election results "can be contested" if evidence of fraud is found".

What's a more formal alternative to "can be contested"?

A more formal alternative could be "can be disputed" or "is subject to challenge". These alternatives maintain a similar meaning but are often used in more formal or professional settings.

Is it always appropriate to use "can be contested"?

While grammatically correct, using "can be contested" implies that there are grounds for disagreement or dispute. Ensure that there is a reasonable basis for questioning the validity or accuracy of the subject before using this phrase.

What's the difference between "can be contested" and "can be questioned"?

"Can be questioned" implies a simple inquiry or doubt, whereas ""can be contested"" suggests a more formal challenge or dispute with potential legal or procedural implications.