can be cool

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be cool" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something has the potential to be interesting or appealing in certain contexts. Example: "This new video game can be cool if it has engaging gameplay and stunning graphics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We live in an age where everyone can be cool by gleaning the secret knowledge of coolness from Tumblr.

Vice

"I can be cool, relaxed and fashionable".

The New York Times

That can be cool, but slightly dizzying.

The New York Times - Travel

He can be cool and distant or passionate and intense.

The New York Times

Weird can be cool; it can be powerful.

The New York Times - Arts

Even on the Equator, the nights can be cool.

The New York Times - Travel

Anything can be cool if you want it to be.

The New York Times

It's easy to forget that ballet can be cool.

The New York Times - Arts

In full summer, it can be cool to cold.

The New York Times - Travel

Winter nights can be cool, but temperatures rarely drop below 7°C.

Cornell University

Should we be O.K. with our teenagers smoking and drinking so they can be cool, too?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be cool" when you want to suggest something has the potential to be perceived as fashionable, interesting, or appealing, but avoid overusing it in formal writing. Consider synonyms like "could be trendy" or "might be interesting" for variety.

Common error

Avoid using "can be cool" excessively, especially in formal contexts. While it's acceptable in informal settings, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or lacking in sophistication. Vary your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be cool" functions as a modal phrase expressing possibility or potential. It indicates that something has the ability or capacity to be perceived as trendy, interesting, or fashionable. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts where potential appeal is being assessed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

22%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be cool" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey the potential for something to be interesting or fashionable. While versatile, its informal tone makes it more suitable for casual conversation than formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its prevalent usage across diverse contexts, mainly in News & Media. For those seeking alternatives, consider options like "could be trendy" or "might be interesting" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be trendy

Replaces 'cool' with 'trendy', focusing on current fashion or popular appeal.

might be fashionable

Emphasizes the aspect of being in line with current fashion trends.

could be interesting

Shifts the focus to the potential for piquing interest or curiosity.

might be appealing

Focuses on the potential to attract or please someone.

could be attractive

Highlights the potential for visual or aesthetic appeal.

might be impressive

Suggests the potential to create a strong, positive impact.

could become popular

Focuses on the potential for widespread acceptance or adoption.

might prove enjoyable

Emphasizes the potential for providing pleasure or satisfaction.

could turn heads

Implies the potential to attract attention in a positive way.

might gain traction

Suggests the potential to gain momentum and become widely recognized.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be cool" to express the possibility of something being fashionable or interesting. For example, "Learning a new language "can be cool" if you approach it with enthusiasm."

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

You can use alternatives like "could be trendy", "might be interesting", or "could be appealing" depending on the context.

Is "can be cool" formal or informal?

"Can be cool" is generally considered informal. In more formal writing, consider using phrases like "could be impressive" or "might be attractive".

What's the difference between "can be cool" and "is cool"?

"Can be cool" suggests a possibility or potential, while "is cool" states a current fact or opinion. For example, "That jacket "can be cool" if you style it right," versus "That jacket "is cool"."