can be denied

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be denied" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is capable of being rejected or refused, often in a legal or formal context. Example: "The claim made by the defendant can be denied based on the evidence presented."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not a particle of this can be denied.

The New Yorker

Now no child can be denied coverage on that basis.

The New York Times - Magazine

Felons and the mentally ill can be denied weapons.

The New York Times

People who fall short can be denied promotions or fired.

The New York Times

Units in buildings where dangerous manufacturing is under way can be denied protection.

The New York Times

People with brain plaques can be denied long-term care insurance.

The New York Times - Health

An employee fired for misconduct can be denied unemployment benefits; one fired for incompetence can collect.

The New York Times

Those with drug felonies on their records can be denied access to affordable public housing.

The New York Times

Yes, men can be denied their full humanity, but not as much.

The Guardian - Arts

People who refuse to comply can be denied entry to the United States, he said.

The New York Times - Books

But it is hard to see how reform can be denied from now on.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be denied" in legal or formal writing, ensure that the reason for denial is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be denied" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "can't have" or "isn't allowed" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be denied" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating the possibility or permissibility of something being refused or rejected. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts where a potential denial is discussed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be denied" is a grammatically correct and widely used passive verb phrase that expresses the possibility of something being refused or rejected. As indicated by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, but also finds use in science and formal business settings. While grammatically sound, it's important to consider the context and choose simpler alternatives for informal settings. The large number of examples available in Ludwig reinforce its validity and usability in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be refused

Direct synonym, focusing on the act of withholding consent or permission.

can be rejected

Implies a more active refusal, often after consideration.

can be disallowed

Suggests a formal or authoritative refusal, often by a governing body.

can be precluded

More formal, implying that something is made impossible or prevented.

can be forbidden

Indicates a strong prohibition, often with legal or moral implications.

can be withheld

Focuses on the act of holding something back, whether it's information or a privilege.

can be contested

Implies that something is challenged or disputed, rather than simply refused.

can be overturned

Suggests a reversal of a previous decision or action.

can be revoked

Indicates that something previously granted is now taken away.

can be nullified

Implies that something is made invalid or without legal force.

FAQs

How to use "can be denied" in a sentence?

The phrase "can be denied" is used to express the possibility of something being refused or rejected. For example: "Access to the building "can be denied" if you don't have a valid pass".

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

You can use alternatives like "can be refused", "can be rejected", or "can be disallowed" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be denied" or "may be denied"?

Both "can be denied" and "may be denied" are grammatically correct, but "can" indicates possibility or ability, while "may" suggests permission or likelihood. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

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

"Can be denied" indicates a possibility, whereas "will be denied" expresses a certainty. For instance, "Your application "can be denied" if you don't meet the requirements" suggests a potential outcome, but "Your application will be denied if you lie" indicates a guaranteed result.