can be exercised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be exercised" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential for an action or right to be utilized or enacted. Example: "The rights granted by the contract can be exercised at any time during the agreement period."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The models can be exercised in alternative ways to support different objectives.

Advances in Chemical Engineering

The option can be exercised in certain circumstances, which the two sides interpret differently.

The New York Times

Instead, they vest -- meaning they can be exercised -- over a period of several years.

The New York Times

If a start-up succeeds, then an option to acquire can be exercised.

Harvard Business Review

At some point to be determined by the general partner, the warrants can be exercised.

The New York Times

What makes the right to mine coal valuable is that it can be exercised with profit.

Cornell University

The warrants can be exercised over a five-year period and are subject to certain restrictions.

The New York Times

It can be exercised through a variety of military, economic, and cultural means.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This can be exercised by installing Energy Saving Devices ESDD) such as Propeller Boss Cap Fins (PBCF).

Applied Ocean Research

As part of his severance agreement, all the options can be exercised at any time he wishes.

The New York Times

Options now worth $3.5 million can be exercised in December, after the election but before the inauguration.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing rights or options, use "can be exercised" to clearly indicate the potential for those rights or options to be put into effect. For example, "The stock options can be exercised after the vesting period."

Common error

Avoid using "can be exercised" when an active construction is more appropriate. Ensure that the subject performing the action is clear and that the passive voice isn't obscuring the intended meaning. For example, instead of "Control can be exercised by the government", consider "The government can exercise control".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be exercised" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating that something has the potential to be used, applied, or put into effect. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase frequently appears in contexts where options, rights, or powers are discussed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

31%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be exercised" is a versatile passive construction employed to express the potential or availability of an action, right, or option. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically sound and appropriate across diverse contexts, especially in news, scientific, and academic settings. While alternatives like "can be utilized" or "can be implemented" exist, "can be exercised" particularly emphasizes the action of putting a right or option into effect. When writing, ensure the passive construction is purposeful and doesn't obscure the intended meaning; otherwise, consider using a more direct, active voice. The consistent usage and variety of sources prove that it is a good option for formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be utilized

Focuses on the practical use of something.

can be implemented

Emphasizes the act of putting something into effect.

can be applied

Highlights the relevance and suitability for a particular situation.

can be enacted

Implies a formal or legal process of implementation.

can be performed

Focuses on the action or execution of something.

can be employed

Suggests using something as a means to an end.

can be activated

Highlights the process of making something operational.

can be leveraged

Focuses on maximizing the advantage or benefit from something.

can be brought to bear

Emphasizes the application of influence or force.

can be put into practice

Highlights the transition from theory to practical application.

FAQs

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

Use "can be exercised" to indicate that a right, option, or power is available to be used or implemented. For example, "The break-clause "can be exercised" next month" indicates the break-clause is available for usage.

What are some alternatives to "can be exercised"?

Alternatives include phrases like "can be utilized", "can be implemented", or "can be applied", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "can be exercised" and "may be exercised"?

"Can be exercised" generally indicates the ability or possibility to use something, while "may be exercised" suggests permission or option to use it. "Can" implies capability, and "may" implies allowance.

When should I use "can be exercised" instead of a more active construction?

Use "can be exercised" when you want to emphasize the potential action or the availability of an option, rather than the actor performing the action. For example, "The right "can be exercised" independently" focuses on the right itself.