can be destroyed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be destroyed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is capable of being destroyed or is not permanent. Example: "The ancient ruins can be destroyed if proper preservation measures are not taken."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Harmony can be destroyed.

Yale University

Composite things can be destroyed.

Yale University

Simmias says invisible things can be destroyed.

Yale University

Well, lots of things can be destroyed.

Yale University

Things that have parts can be destroyed.

Yale University

So invisible things can be destroyed.

Yale University

It can be destroyed but not conquered.

The Guardian - Film

It can be destroyed by a hug.

The Guardian - Opinion

Saddam's regime can be destroyed, no doubt.

The New York Times

The kinds of things that can be destroyed have parts.

Yale University

But of course, for all that, they can be destroyed.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be destroyed" in contexts where you want to emphasize the potential for something to be ruined or eliminated. For example, when discussing vulnerabilities or risks.

Common error

Avoid using "can be destroyed" in situations where a simpler verb like 'broken' or 'damaged' would be more appropriate. Overusing dramatic language can diminish the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be destroyed" functions as a passive construction, indicating the potential for something to undergo destruction. It highlights the vulnerability of the subject to external forces. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is perfectly usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Academia

16%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be destroyed" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to denote the potential for something to be ruined or eliminated. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various writing contexts, from academic to news-related. While versatile, it’s important to consider the tone; a more straightforward alternative might be preferable in less severe situations. Alternatives include phrases like "is susceptible to destruction" or "may be ruined". When using "can be destroyed", be mindful of the context to ensure the language aligns with the intended message and doesn't introduce unnecessary drama.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is susceptible to destruction

Replaces the modal verb 'can' with 'is susceptible to', emphasizing vulnerability.

is liable to be ruined

Uses 'liable' to suggest a higher probability of destruction.

may be annihilated

Replaces 'destroyed' with 'annihilated' to suggest complete obliteration.

could be demolished

Substitutes 'destroyed' with 'demolished', often used for buildings or structures.

is capable of being eliminated

Formal alternative, replacing 'destroyed' with 'eliminated' and adding 'capable of'.

is at risk of being terminated

Highlights the risk factor and replaces 'destroyed' with 'terminated'.

is in danger of obliteration

Focuses on the danger aspect and uses the stronger term 'obliteration'.

faces potential wreckage

Uses 'wreckage' to imply a state of ruin after destruction.

might be eradicated

Replaces 'destroyed' with 'eradicated' to suggest complete removal or wiping out.

is prone to being dismantled

Uses 'prone' to suggest a natural tendency towards destruction by disassembly.

FAQs

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

Use "can be destroyed" to indicate that something is susceptible to being ruined or eliminated. For instance, "Fragile ecosystems "can be destroyed" by pollution".

What are some alternatives to "can be destroyed"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "is susceptible to destruction", "may be ruined", or "could be demolished".

Is it always appropriate to use "can be destroyed"?

While grammatically correct, "can be destroyed" might be too dramatic for some contexts. Choose a verb that matches the tone and severity of the situation. Consider "can be damaged" or "can be broken" for less severe situations.

What does "can be destroyed" imply about the subject?

"Can be destroyed" implies that the subject is vulnerable or not permanent. It suggests that external forces or conditions could lead to its ruin or elimination.