can be deferred

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be deferred" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of postponing or delaying an action or decision. Example: "The meeting can be deferred until next week if everyone agrees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Finally, if that is not enough, part of the principal can be deferred.

The New York Times

That future can be deferred, but it will not be denied.

The New York Times

But that doesn't mean that all action on entitlements can be deferred.

The New York Times

First, instead of having to hand out hard cash now, the financial hit can be deferred.

Independent

Moreover, the wrinkling-induced necking in such a thin film anode can be deferred by regulating the charging capacity.

Extreme Mechanics Letters

Mr. Breimer warns parents and students not to be arrogant; even the strongest applicants can be deferred.

The New York Times

If that is not possible, some or all of a pension can be deferred until conditions improve.

The Guardian

For example, the dividends on Citigroup's government preference shares can be deferred but not cancelled, unlike those on common stock.

The Economist

"There are some on the left who believe that this issue can be deferred," Mr. Obama said.

The New York Times

The key insight seems to be to prioritize patients over tests and other interruptions that can be deferred.

The New York Times

Recognise that not everything on the list actually needs to be done; some tasks can be deferred or deleted.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be deferred" when you want to express that an action, payment, decision, or event is permissible to be delayed until a later time.

Common error

While "can be deferred" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider rephrasing into active voice when possible for a more direct and impactful statement. Instead of saying 'The decision can be deferred', you might say 'We can defer the decision'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be deferred" functions as a passive modal construction, indicating that an action or decision is permissible to be delayed. This is supported by Ludwig AI which confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

23%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be deferred" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that indicates the possibility of delaying an action or decision. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, consider whether an active voice construction might be more impactful. Remember that it's generally permissible to postpone something until a later time. If you're seeking alternatives, consider options like "can be postponed" or "can be delayed". Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be postponed

Emphasizes a temporary delay, similar to deferral, but often implies a later, rescheduled date.

can be delayed

Focuses on the action of being slowed down or put off, suggesting a later occurrence.

can be put off

Suggests a more informal way of saying something is delayed or postponed.

can be rescheduled

Implies a new time or date will be set for the deferred event or action.

can be held back

Focuses on restraining or preventing something from proceeding at the present time.

can be shelved

Suggests indefinite postponement, possibly with no intention of revisiting the matter.

can be suspended

Emphasizes a temporary cessation, often with a formal or official connotation.

can be tabled

Indicates that a discussion or decision is put aside, usually in a formal setting.

can be set aside

Implies something is put to the side, either temporarily or permanently.

can be pigeonholed

Suggests that something is categorized and then ignored or forgotten.

FAQs

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

Use "can be deferred" to indicate that something is allowed to be delayed or postponed. For example: "The payment "can be deferred" until next month."

What is a good alternative to "can be deferred"?

Alternatives include "can be postponed", "can be delayed", or "can be put off", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "can be deferred to a later date"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Adding "to a later date" provides additional clarity regarding the timing of the deferral. Consider also alternatives like "can be rescheduled".

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

"Can be deferred" implies that delaying something is permissible or optional. "Must be deferred", on the other hand, indicates that delaying something is obligatory or required. For alternatives consider "can be held back".