can be detected

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be detected" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is capable of being discovered or identified through observation or measurement. Example: "The presence of the chemical can be detected using advanced laboratory techniques."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Again, some magic can be detected here.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rather, these changes can be detected now.

The Guardian

Thankfully, the little neutral ones, neutrinos, can be detected.

The Guardian

His creative DNA can be detected in her as well.

The New Yorker

With the magnet off, those tracks can be detected.

The Guardian

Shalamov's belief can be detected in the stories themselves.

The Guardian - Books

The little compromises can be detected any Sunday.

The New York Times

Unknown objects can be detected and grasped.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

However, intermolecular sandwich complexes can be detected.

Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology C: Photochemistry Reviews

Disease can be detected within 2 months of infection.

The Guardian

Actually, budget considerations can be detected in this arrangement.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be detected" to clearly indicate the possibility of discovering or identifying something through specific methods or technologies. This provides clarity and precision in scientific and technical writing.

Common error

Avoid using "can be detected" for everyday observations that are immediately obvious. Opt for simpler, more direct language like "is visible" or "is noticeable" to maintain a natural and engaging tone. For instance, instead of saying "The smell of smoke can be detected", saying "The smell of smoke is noticeable" sounds less formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be detected" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating the possibility or ability to discover or identify something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

41%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be detected" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase. It is particularly common in scientific, technical, and news contexts to indicate the possibility of discovering or identifying something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While versatile, simpler alternatives may be preferred in informal settings to avoid sounding overly formal. Its widespread usage and clear meaning make it a valuable asset in various forms of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is discernible

Emphasizes the ability to perceive or recognize something, often through careful observation.

is recognizable

Emphasizes the quality of being easily known or identified, often due to familiarity.

is identifiable

Focuses on the possibility of identification, emphasizing a characteristic or feature that allows recognition.

is observable

Highlights the potential for direct observation, implying that something is visible or noticeable.

may be revealed

Focuses on the potential for something to become apparent or known, often implying a gradual process.

is ascertainable

Focuses on the possibility of confirming or establishing something with certainty.

can be spotted

Suggests an easy, often visual, discovery.

may be uncovered

Highlights the possibility of revealing something previously hidden or unknown.

is susceptible to detection

Highlights the vulnerability or likelihood of being discovered, often in a technical context.

is capable of being sensed

Emphasizes the potential for perceiving something through the senses.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be detected" is used to indicate that something is capable of being discovered or identified. For example, "The presence of the chemical "can be detected" using advanced laboratory techniques."

What are some alternatives to "can be detected"?

You can use alternatives such as "is identifiable", "is discernible", or "is observable" depending on the context.

Is "can be detected" formal or informal?

The phrase "can be detected" is generally considered neutral to formal and suitable for scientific, technical, and professional contexts. In everyday conversation, simpler alternatives might be preferred.

Which is correct, "can be detected" or "can detect"?

"Can detect" implies an active subject capable of performing the detection, while ""can be detected"" is passive, indicating that something is capable of being found. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the actor or the object being detected.