can be described

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be described" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that can be explained in words or defined, such as "The beauty of the sunset can be described, but it is difficult to capture its true magnificence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

His results can be described as follows.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Or maybe they can be described.

The New York Times - Arts

The result can be described as follows.

Journal of Functional Analysis

Ecosystems can be described at various scales.

Insect Ecology An Ecosystem Approach

"Putin's words can be described as prophetic".

Independent

The Greeks believed beauty can be described by numbers.

The Guardian - Opinion

None of the documentary's lessons can be described as reassuring.

The New York Times

I don't think it can be described as a 'rethink'".

The Guardian

Iceboats can be described as skeleton sailboats with runners.

The New York Times

My God, he realizes, the shell can be described mathematically.

The New Yorker

Thus things can be described with unlimited, infinitesimal precision.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be described", ensure that the description provides meaningful and specific information, rather than vague generalities. Use examples and details to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be described" as a placeholder without providing an actual description. Instead of saying "The situation can be described", follow up immediately with a concise and informative description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be described" functions as a modal passive construction. It indicates the possibility or ability for something to be characterized or explained in a particular way. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

27%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be described" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to introduce descriptions, definitions, or explanations. As Ludwig AI validates, it's widely employed across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While the phrase itself is straightforward, it's crucial to follow it with a specific and informative description to avoid vagueness. Related phrases like "can be characterized" or "can be defined" offer subtle variations in meaning, allowing for more precise communication. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage patterns, writers can effectively utilize "can be described" to enhance the clarity and precision of their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be characterized

Focuses on identifying the key traits or qualities of something.

can be defined

Emphasizes providing a clear and precise meaning.

can be explained

Highlights the process of making something understandable.

can be portrayed

Suggests representing something visually or through narrative.

can be depicted

Similar to 'portrayed', but often implies a more detailed or artistic representation.

can be illustrated

Focuses on using examples or visual aids to clarify something.

can be represented

Highlights the use of symbols or models to stand for something.

can be classified

Emphasizes organizing something into categories based on shared characteristics.

can be labeled

Focuses on assigning a name or designation to something.

can be outlined

Suggests providing a summary or overview of something.

FAQs

How do I use "can be described" in a sentence?

Use "can be described" to introduce a definition, explanation, or characterization of something. For example, "The process "can be described as follows": first, gather the data; second, analyze it; and third, present your findings."

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

You can use alternatives like "can be defined", "can be explained", or "can be characterized" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "can be described" or "could be described"?

"Can be described" indicates a present ability or possibility, while "could be described" suggests a past possibility or a hypothetical situation. Choose the tense that accurately reflects the context. Example: "The phenomenon "can be described" using this equation" (present), vs. "The event "could be described" as a turning point in history" (past).

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

"Can be described" implies that something is capable of being described, whereas "is described" indicates that something has already been described in a specific way. For instance, "The algorithm "can be described" in detail" (it's possible to describe it), versus "The algorithm "is described" in Section 3" (it has already been described there).