can be discovered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be discovered" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is able to be found or revealed, often in the context of research, exploration, or investigation. Example: "Many new species can be discovered in the depths of the ocean, waiting to be studied by scientists."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Perhaps the answer can be discovered in a brain scan.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Only if weaknesses can be discovered and described openly will they be fixed.

The New York Times

I believe that, during my lifetime, a cure can be discovered for this catastrophic disease.

The Guardian - Books

"This is easier than a vehicle bomb that can be discovered," said the analyst.

The New York Times

Many more unexpected kinships between vastly different artists can be discovered in the collection.

The New York Times - Arts

The process is repeated until no savings can be discovered.

Computer Aided Chemical Engineering

Latent Fingerprints can be discovered by various methods.

Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences

Geospatial data is most useful when it can be discovered, shared, and used.

Comprehensive Geographic Information Systems

Multiple and interactive shear bands can be discovered on the fracture surface of fractured Cu51Zr37Ti8Ni4.

Materials Science and Engineering: A

Composition errors and problems can be discovered early in the design stage.

Information and Software Technology

If these points can be discovered, designers can make best use of them.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be discovered" when you want to emphasize the potential for something to be found or revealed through exploration, research, or investigation.

Common error

Avoid using "can be discovered" in situations where a simpler term like "found" or "located" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious. Opt for direct language when clarity is paramount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be discovered" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something is capable of being found or revealed. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

68%

News & Media

23%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be discovered" is a versatile passive construction used to express the potential for something to be found or revealed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in scientific and news contexts. While alternatives such as "can be found" or "can be revealed" exist, "can be discovered" often implies a more deliberate and investigative process. It is essential to avoid overuse in overly simplistic situations and reserve its use for scenarios where potential and exploration are key themes. This ensures clarity and avoids unnecessary complexity in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be found

Simple substitution using a more common synonym for "discovered".

can be revealed

Emphasizes the act of uncovering or making something known.

can be identified

Focuses on recognizing or distinguishing something.

can be unearthed

Implies digging up or uncovering something hidden, often with effort.

can be uncovered

Similar to "unearthed", but less forceful, suggesting a more passive revealing.

can be ascertained

Highlights the process of learning or determining something with certainty.

can be detected

Focuses on noticing or sensing something, often through instruments or observation.

can be exposed

Suggests bringing something hidden into plain sight, often implying something negative.

can be learned

Emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge or skill through study, experience, or being taught.

can be brought to light

More metaphorical, suggesting revealing something previously unknown or obscure.

FAQs

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

Use "can be discovered" to describe something that has the potential to be found or revealed. For example, "New insights into the human brain "can be discovered" through advanced imaging techniques."

What are some alternatives to "can be discovered"?

Alternatives include "can be found", "can be revealed", or "can be identified", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "can be discovered" and "can be found"?

"Can be found" is a more general term, while "can be discovered" often implies a more deliberate or investigative process. Something "can be found" by accident, but something "can be discovered" through active searching or research.

When is it appropriate to use "can be discovered" instead of "will be discovered"?

"Can be discovered" indicates a possibility, while "will be discovered" implies a certainty. Use "can be discovered" when the outcome is uncertain but there is potential for discovery, and use "will be discovered" when you are confident the discovery will occur.