can be filled

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be filled" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that can be filled with something else, or when referring to a space or vacancy that can be filled. For example: "The position can be filled by someone with the right qualifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Growlers can be filled from six lines.

The New York Times - Food

Space can be filled, of course.

The Guardian

Space in newsprint papers can be filled.

The Guardian

They can be filled with powder, granules, or pellets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That void can be filled with something universally spiritual".

The Guardian

If cracked or chipped, it can be filled fairly well.

The New York Times

The return can be filled in online or on paper.

The Guardian - Money

"His loss on the field, though serious, can be filled.

The Guardian

These boards are categorised and can be filled with whatever information you pick.

The Guardian

They are something like patterns, made up of positions that can be filled by objects.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Maybe I'll get lucky and my order can be filled on the first try.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be filled", ensure the subject that is being filled is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying 'the gap can be filled', specify 'the gap in the market can be filled'.

Common error

Avoid overusing passive constructions like "can be filled" as it can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Consider active alternatives where appropriate to make your writing more engaging. For example, instead of 'the position can be filled by a qualified candidate', try 'a qualified candidate can fill the position'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be filled" primarily functions as a passive construction indicating the potential for something to be occupied or completed. Ludwig provides examples where it's used to describe vacancies, containers, and abstract gaps, all awaiting something to occupy them.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be filled" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating the potential for something to be occupied, completed, or satisfied. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is grammatically correct and applicable across various contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. While overuse of the passive voice should be avoided for stronger writing, "can be filled" serves a valuable purpose in expressing possibility and opportunity. Consider using synonyms like "can be occupied" or "can be completed" to add variety to your writing, but ensure the subject and context remain clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is able to be filled

A more verbose way of saying the same thing, adding emphasis.

can be occupied

Focuses on physical or abstract space being taken up.

can be taken up

Focuses on the action of occupying a space or position.

can be completed

Emphasizes the action of finishing something, like a form or a task.

can be satisfied

Highlights the fulfillment of a requirement or need.

can be supplied

Suggests that something can be provided or furnished.

can be replenished

Implies that something can be restored or renewed.

can be loaded

Emphasizes the action of putting something into a container or space.

can be loaded up

Highlights filling something completely, often with a sense of abundance.

can be stuffed

Suggests filling something to its maximum capacity, often with soft materials.

FAQs

How is "can be filled" used in a sentence?

The phrase "can be filled" indicates the possibility or ability of something to be occupied or completed. For example, "The vacancy "can be filled" by a suitable candidate" or "The bottle "can be filled" with water".

What are some synonyms for "can be filled"?

Alternatives to "can be filled" include "can be occupied", "can be completed", or "can be replenished", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use an active or passive voice with "can be filled"?

While "can be filled" is grammatically correct, using the active voice often results in a stronger and more direct sentence. For instance, instead of "The container "can be filled" with liquid", consider "You can fill the container with liquid".

What does "can be filled" imply?

The phrase "can be filled" generally implies that there is a space, need, or requirement that has the potential to be satisfied or occupied. It suggests a possibility for completion or fulfillment. It doesn't mean that such gap/space "will be filled".