can be forgiven

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be forgiven" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of excusing someone's actions or mistakes. Example: "While his behavior was unacceptable, I believe that everyone makes mistakes and can be forgiven."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His doubts can be forgiven.

The Economist

Fans can be forgiven for losing interest.

The New Yorker

They can be forgiven for thinking so.

The New York Times

Raisman can be forgiven his pride.

The New Yorker

But perhaps she can be forgiven?

The New York Times

Many sins can be forgiven in entertainment.

The New York Times - Arts

But he can be forgiven.

The New York Times

Eulogists can be forgiven for exaggeration.

The New York Times

I hope I can be forgiven.

The Guardian - Books

In these circumstances much can be forgiven.

The Guardian - Books

'What happened again?' They can be forgiven.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be forgiven", ensure the context clearly indicates who is granting the forgiveness and what specific action is being forgiven. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the message.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all actions "can be forgiven" without considering the severity and impact. Some actions may have consequences that extend beyond personal forgiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be forgiven" functions as a passive voice construction using the modal verb "can". It indicates the potential or possibility of something being pardoned or excused. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be forgiven" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate the possibility of excusing an action or mistake. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across diverse contexts, including news, academic writing, and general communication. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings. While numerous alternatives exist, such as "is excusable" or "can be pardoned", the choice depends on the specific nuance you intend to convey. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding who grants the forgiveness and the specific action being forgiven to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be excused

A more direct alternative, indicating acceptance of an apology or reason.

is excusable

Highlights the justification or reason behind the act being forgiven.

is pardonable

Emphasizes the act of being officially excused from punishment.

can be overlooked

Implies that the mistake is not significant enough to warrant serious attention.

is able to be pardoned

A more verbose version, stressing the ability to receive forgiveness.

is condonable

Suggests overlooking an offense, often implying tolerance.

is remissible

Focuses on the possibility of being absolved from guilt.

warrants forgiveness

Suggests that the situation or act justifies being forgiven.

is fit to be forgiven

Indicates that the act or person meets the criteria for receiving forgiveness.

is susceptible to forgiveness

Highlights the vulnerability of the situation or person to being forgiven.

FAQs

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

Use "can be forgiven" to express that a mistake or offense is capable of being excused or pardoned. For example: "His error "can be forgiven" because it was unintentional."

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

Alternatives include "is excusable", "can be pardoned", or "is pardonable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "can be forgiven" or "could be forgiven"?

"Can be forgiven" implies a general possibility or allowance for forgiveness, while "could be forgiven" suggests a conditional or hypothetical scenario. The choice depends on the context and whether you're discussing a potential or certain action.

What's the difference between "can be forgiven" and "should be forgiven"?

"Can be forgiven" indicates the possibility of forgiveness, while "should be forgiven" implies a moral or ethical obligation to forgive. The former focuses on the ability to forgive, while the latter emphasizes the desirability or necessity of doing so.