can be copyrighted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be copyrighted" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a particular work or creation is eligible for copyright protection under the law. Example: "Original works of art, literature, and music can be copyrighted to protect the creator's rights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

What types of things can be copyrighted?

The New York Times

But invented languages can be copyrighted, others argue.

The Guardian

While allowing the movie to be released she said: "Of course tattoos can be copyrighted.

The New York Times

Updated to clarify that Alsup will rule on whether APIs can be copyrighted.

The Guardian - Tech

But once there's software involved, copyright enters the picture because software itself can be copyrighted.

The Guardian - Tech

Recipes, she said, can be copyrighted as literary expressions, but not as culinary ones.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

1. Understand what can be copyright protected.

Forbes

While computer programs can normally be copyrighted, the Copyright Office also decided that typeface programs would not be copyrightable because all they did was tell the computer how to draw a particular shape.

The New York Times

work can properly be copyrighted.

Harvard University

Can laws be copyrighted?

Forbes

Lionel Hutz says that a drink can not be copyrighted, citing the "Frank Wallbanger case of '78".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be copyrighted" to introduce the possibility of copyright protection, not as a definitive statement of legal status. Always consult legal expertise for confirmation.

Common error

Avoid asserting that something "can be copyrighted" without considering originality and other legal criteria. State it as a possibility, not a guarantee. An idea isn't protected, only its expression is.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be copyrighted" functions as a passive verb phrase. It indicates the possibility or eligibility of a work being protected under copyright law. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

32%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be copyrighted" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates a work's eligibility for copyright protection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and appropriate way to describe the potential for securing legal protection for original creations. The phrase appears most commonly in News & Media and Academic contexts, suggesting its relevance in discussions of intellectual property and creative rights. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to specify which aspects of a work are eligible for copyright and to avoid overstating copyright eligibility without proper legal consultation. Understanding these nuances will help ensure accurate and effective communication about copyright matters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is eligible for copyright

Focuses on eligibility rather than the possibility of being copyrighted.

is subject to copyright protection

Highlights the aspect of legal protection provided by copyright.

is protected by copyright law

Emphasizes the role of copyright law in providing protection.

can receive copyright protection

Similar meaning, but focuses on the act of receiving protection.

can be secured with copyright

Highlights the process of securing copyright protection.

qualifies for copyright

Focuses on meeting the criteria for copyright eligibility.

meets copyright requirements

Emphasizes adherence to legal requirements for copyright.

is copyrightable

A more concise, single-word alternative.

is entitled to copyright

Indicates a legal right to copyright protection.

can be registered for copyright

Focuses on the act of registering the copyright.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "can be copyrighted"?

It means the work meets the basic requirements for copyright protection, such as originality and fixation in a tangible medium, making it eligible for legal protection against unauthorized use. Actual protection requires fulfilling registration procedures.

What types of works "can be copyrighted"?

Original works of authorship, including literary, dramatic, musical, and certain other intellectual works, "can be copyrighted". This includes code, designs, recordings and other forms of tangible expressions. However, ideas themselves cannot be copyrighted.

How do I determine if my work "can be copyrighted"?

Assess whether your work is original, creative, and fixed in a tangible form (written down, recorded, etc.). Ensure it doesn't infringe on existing copyrights. Consulting a copyright lawyer is recommended for complex cases.

What are some alternatives to saying "can be copyrighted"?

You can use alternatives like "is eligible for copyright", "is subject to copyright protection", or "can receive copyright protection" depending on the context.