can be delayed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be delayed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of postponing an event, action, or process. Example: "The delivery of the package can be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Voice or video communications can be delayed.

The Economist

This decomposition can be delayed by refrigeration, Dr. Kainer said.

The New York Times

Cases can be delayed for a number of reasons.

The New Yorker

As with all email, delivery occasionally can be delayed.

Cornell University

The need for new area codes can be delayed indefinitely.

The New York Times

Legal battles can ensue, and distribution can be delayed.

The New York Times

Disclosures of such transactions can be delayed until 45 days after the company's fiscal year ends.

The New York Times

The timing of a reaction can be delayed as a result of the digestive process.

Britannica

By suppressing this vote, the effect of the demographic change can be delayed.

The Washington Post

Diabetes can be delayed, and even prevented, by exercise and a low-fat, low-sugar diet.

The New York Times - Health

The Monday meeting can be delayed if the gap is narrowing but not yet closed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be delayed", clarify the reason for the potential delay to provide context and manage expectations.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive construction "can be delayed". In many cases, active voice provides a more direct and engaging sentence. For example, instead of "The project can be delayed by weather", try "Weather can delay the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be delayed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating the possibility of postponement or deferment. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English, showcasing its grammatical validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be delayed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It communicates the possibility of postponing events or processes. It appears most often in news, scientific, and academic writing, showcasing its broad applicability. When using this phrase, clarity regarding the reason for the potential delay is beneficial to the receiver of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can become delayed

Slightly changes the emphasis to the process of delaying, rather than the state.

can be deferred

Suggests a formal postponement to a later time.

can be put off

A more informal way of saying something is postponed.

can be decelerated

Implies a slowing down of progress, not necessarily a complete stop.

can be slowed down

Focuses on reducing the pace rather than stopping entirely.

can be suspended

Implies a temporary interruption with the possibility of resumption.

can be held back

Suggests an external force preventing progress or advancement.

can be impeded

Implies something is hindering the process, causing it to be delayed.

can be cancelled

Indicates a complete termination, not just a temporary delay.

can be adjourned

Typically used in formal settings like meetings or legal proceedings, meaning to postpone to a specific time or indefinitely.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be delayed" to indicate that an event or process might be postponed. For example, "The meeting "can be delayed" due to unforeseen circumstances".

What are some alternatives to "can be delayed"?

Alternatives include phrases like "can be postponed", "can be deferred", or "can be put off", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "can be delayed" or "may be delayed"?

Both "can be delayed" and "may be delayed" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Can" suggests possibility, while "may" also implies permission or likelihood. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "can be delayed" and "will be delayed"?

"Can be delayed" indicates a possibility of postponement, while "will be delayed" suggests a higher degree of certainty that the event will, in fact, be pushed to a later time. Use "will be delayed" when the delay is more definite.