can be expressed

USAGE SUMMARY

'can be expressed' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that can be communicated in words, symbols, or other forms of communication. Example: His love for her can be expressed in the way he looks at her.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Recombinant glycosyltransferases can be expressed in various expression systems.

Methods in Enzymology

Homoeroticism can be expressed but not named.

The New York Times

It can be expressed, quietly or rowdily.

The Guardian - Books

It can be expressed through film; it can be expressed through art, literature and music.

The Guardian - Music

"Those concerns can be expressed in a democratic process".

The New York Times

In this universe of politics, only certainty can be expressed.

The Guardian

"Any good idea can be expressed at that length".

The New York Times

It can be expressed in a variety of ways.

The New York Times

America's core budget challenge can be expressed simply.

The Guardian

It can be expressed naturally using a level set function.

Journal of Computational Physics

This stress can be expressed as internal forces.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be expressed" when you want to emphasize the possibility or ability to communicate something, whether through words, symbols, or actions.

Common error

Avoid using "can be expressed" with subjects that are already inherently expressive. For instance, instead of saying "the music can be expressed beautifully", consider "the music expresses beauty", which is more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be expressed" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the possibility or ability for something to be conveyed or represented. Ludwig AI highlights its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be expressed" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the potential for communication or representation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains, particularly in science and news media. While its register is generally neutral, careful attention should be paid to avoiding overuse with already expressive subjects. Alternatives like "can be articulated" or "can be communicated" can offer more precise connotations. Ludwig's examples showcase the phrase's utility in diverse contexts, solidifying its place as a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be articulated

Focuses on verbal or written communication of an idea or feeling.

can be communicated

Emphasizes the transmission of information or emotion.

can be conveyed

Highlights the successful transfer of a message or meaning.

can be manifested

Stresses the appearance or realization of something in a tangible form.

can be represented

Focuses on symbolizing or standing for something else.

can be shown

Highlights the demonstration or display of something.

can be demonstrated

Focuses on proving or illustrating something through evidence.

can be indicated

Emphasizes pointing out or showing something indirectly.

can be embodied

Highlights the tangible form of an abstract idea.

can be reflected

Highlights how something mirrors or corresponds to something else.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be expressed" indicates the ability to convey something. For example, "Emotions "can be expressed" through art" or "The data "can be expressed" in a graph".

What are some alternatives to "can be expressed"?

Alternatives include "can be articulated", "can be communicated", or "can be conveyed", depending on the specific nuance you wish to communicate.

Is it better to use "can be expressed" or "is expressed"?

"Can be expressed" suggests a potential or ability, while "is expressed" denotes a current state. Use "can be expressed" when highlighting the possibility of conveying something, and "is expressed" when stating that something is actively being conveyed.

What does "can be expressed as" mean?

"Can be expressed as" typically indicates that something "can be represented" or formulated in a particular way, often mathematically or symbolically. For instance, "The problem "can be expressed as" an equation".