can be directed

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be directed" is a valid and grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It is commonly used in passive voice constructions to describe the ability or possibility of something being directed, guided, or controlled. Example: In order to ensure that the project runs smoothly, a team leader can be designated who can be directed by the project manager to assign tasks and oversee the progress. In this sentence, "can be directed" is used to describe the potential of the team leader being directed by the project manager. Another example could be: "The flow of traffic can be directed by traffic lights at busy intersections." Here, "can be directed" is used to describe the functionality of traffic lights in controlling the flow of traffic.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That hyperbolic energy can be directed in different directions, and Alex had no control.

Vice

The edges can be directed in one or both directions.

Plosone

Questions can be directed to Kathy Lovell.

Harvard University

Questions can be directed to Marcia Kazmierczak.

Harvard University

Questions can be directed to [email protected]

Cornell University

Questions can be directed to Alexandra Cabral.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Questions can be directed to [email protected]

Yale University

Questions can be directed to [email protected]

Harvard University

The network topology can be directed.

Neurocomputing

Military personnel can be directed by a government.

The Guardian

Save time that can be directed toward innovation.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be directed", ensure the sentence clearly identifies the agent or mechanism responsible for the direction. For example, "Efforts can be directed towards improving efficiency."

Common error

Avoid using "can be directed" in sentences where the subject receiving the direction is unclear. This can lead to confusion. Instead of saying "The energy can be directed", specify "The energy can be directed towards renewable resources".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be directed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something is capable of being guided, controlled, or channeled by an external force or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

42%

News & Media

32%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be directed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive construction that expresses the potential for guidance or control. Ludwig AI validates its widespread usage across diverse fields, most notably in academia, news, and scientific publications. While versatile, it's important to ensure clarity by specifying the directing agent to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases, such as "can be guided" or "can be channeled", offer nuanced variations for more precise communication. Overall, "can be directed" serves as a valuable tool for conveying possibilities and capabilities in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be guided

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of providing guidance or leadership, subtly changing the focus from direct control to influence.

can be channeled

This alternative highlights the idea of redirecting or focusing something, often energy or resources, towards a specific goal.

can be controlled

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of maintaining power over something, implying a more forceful form of management.

can be steered

This alternative suggests maneuvering something in a certain direction, similar to navigating a vehicle.

can be managed

This alternative focuses on the act of handling or supervising something, often with the goal of efficiency or effectiveness.

can be influenced

This alternative highlights the act of affecting something without necessarily having direct control over it.

can be governed

This alternative implies ruling or regulating something, often within a structured system or organization.

can be oriented

This alternative focuses on adjusting the position or direction of something.

can be administered

This alternative suggests managing something in a formal or official capacity, often by an authority.

can be aimed

This alternative refers to the act of pointing something towards a specific target or goal.

FAQs

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

Use "can be directed" to indicate the possibility of guiding or channeling something towards a specific purpose. For example, "Resources "can be directed" to improving infrastructure".

What's the difference between "can be directed" and "should be directed"?

"Can be directed" implies a possibility or potential, while "should be directed" suggests a recommendation or obligation. "Funds "can be directed" towards research" means it's possible. "Funds should be directed towards research" recommends it.

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

You can use alternatives like "can be guided", "can be channeled", or "can be controlled" depending on the desired nuance.

Is it better to use the active or passive voice with phrases like "can be directed"?

While the passive voice is grammatically correct, using the active voice can sometimes make the sentence more direct and clear. For example, instead of "Efforts can be directed by the manager", you could say "The manager can direct efforts".