can be displaced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be displaced" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing physical or metaphorical movement, such as in science, psychology, or social issues. Example: "In certain conditions, the center of mass of an object can be displaced from its original position."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Businesses can be displaced, residents asked to move, property taken over.

The New York Times

"I can be displaced by technology, but they still can't fire me," he says.

The New York Times

The presumption for or against bail can be displaced by evidence.

The Guardian - Opinion

A fluid can be displaced either mechanically or by the use of another fluid.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many of them are sufficiently stable to be isolated and handled, but cod and similar ligands can be displaced by stronger ligands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ossicles can be displaced laterally.

Insights into Imaging

Plenty of remaining oil can be displaced by combining continuous CO2 flooding and gas channeling treatments.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

It can be displaced more than 2.5 μm with less than 30 V actuation voltage.

Microelectronic Engineering

Recently it has become apparent that routers can be displaced by so-called Layer 3 switches.

Forbes

More oil can be displaced by lowered IFT owing to alkali-generated soap.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Additionally, water molecules can be displaced by ligands or flexible protein side-chains.

Chemistry Central Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be displaced", ensure the context clearly indicates what is doing the displacing and what is being displaced to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be displaced" excessively in passive voice, as it can make writing sound weak and indirect. Opt for active voice where appropriate to create stronger, more engaging sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be displaced" functions as a passive construction indicating the potential for something to be moved, replaced, or removed. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is usable in written English across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be displaced" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive construction, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It indicates the potential for movement, replacement, or removal. Its usage is prevalent in Science, News & Media, and Encyclopedias demonstrating its versatility. When writing, prioritize clarity by specifying what is being displaced and by what. While common, avoid overuse of passive voice for stronger writing. Alternatives like "can be replaced" or "can be moved" offer nuanced ways to convey the same concept. Be mindful of context to maintain precision and avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be replaced

Implies a direct exchange, where one item or entity takes the place of another.

can be substituted

Indicates replacement by something similar, emphasizing interchangeability.

can be shifted

Emphasizes a change in position or focus, often subtle.

can be superseded

Suggests a newer version or method takes precedence, making the original obsolete.

can be overwritten

Indicates that existing data or information is replaced with new data.

can be relocated

Focuses on the physical movement of something to a new location.

can be ousted

Implies forceful removal, often from a position or place.

can be made redundant

Signifies that a job or role is no longer necessary.

can be unseated

Suggests being removed from a position of power or authority.

can be dethroned

Specifically refers to the removal of a monarch or figurehead.

FAQs

How to use "can be displaced" in a sentence?

The phrase "can be displaced" indicates that something is capable of being moved or replaced. For example, "The incumbent leader "can be displaced" by a stronger candidate".

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

You can use alternatives like "can be replaced", "can be moved", or "can be substituted" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be displaced" or "can become displaced"?

"Can be displaced" is generally more concise and common. "Can become displaced" adds a sense of transition or progression but isn't always necessary.

What's the difference between "can be displaced" and "can be relocated"?

"Can be displaced" generally implies a forced movement or replacement, while "can be relocated" suggests a more intentional or planned change of location.