can be formed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be formed" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something has the potential to develop or take form. For example, "A unique and creative idea can be formed from the combination of these two concepts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Traps can be formed in many ways.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Groups can be formed for specific projects.

The Economist

By hand gradually add water until dough can be formed.

The New York Times

Only fear and resentment can be formed through cruelty.

The Guardian

Out of this more concrete ideas can be formed".

The Guardian

Labor unions can be formed and hold internal elections only with government approval.

The New York Times

The higher the energy of the collision, the more massive the particles that can be formed.

The Guardian

About 4lb of meth can be formed from each gallon of liquid meth, he said.

The Guardian

"The futures of Derrick and D. J. can be formed based on how they perform".

The New York Times - Sports

It can be formed and shaped into new and wonderful designs and purposes.

The Guardian

At night he thinks up words that can be formed with various combinations of letters.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be formed" to describe potential outcomes or possibilities, especially in scientific or technical contexts. It effectively conveys the idea that something is capable of being created or developed under certain conditions.

Common error

Avoid using "can be formed" in simple sentences where a more direct verb would be clearer. For example, instead of "A group can be formed", consider "A group forms".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be formed" functions as an auxiliary verb phrase indicating possibility or potential. According to Ludwig AI, it expresses that something has the capacity to develop or take form. It's widely used to describe the ability of something to be created or shaped under certain conditions, as shown in various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be formed" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to express the potential for something to be created, developed, or shaped. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. Appearing most frequently in scientific and news contexts, it indicates possibility. When writing, remember to choose more direct verbs in simpler constructions. Alternatives like "may be created" or "could be generated" offer subtle shifts in emphasis. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively employ "can be formed" in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be created

Emphasizes the possibility of creation, suggesting a slightly more formal tone.

could be generated

Focuses on the act of generating, implying a process or mechanism that leads to formation.

might be developed

Highlights the development aspect, suggesting a gradual process of formation.

may arise

Suggests the emergence of something, often from less tangible origins.

can emerge

Highlights the emergence of something, suggesting it becomes visible or known.

can take shape

Focuses on the process of forming a distinct shape or structure.

can be produced

Emphasizes the manufacturing or creation aspect of the formation.

can originate

Focuses on the source or beginning of the formation process.

can materialize

Implies the formation of something tangible from something intangible.

can result

Highlights the consequence of the formation process.

FAQs

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

"Can be formed" indicates the possibility of something being created or taking shape. For instance, "Traps "can be formed" in many ways" or "Groups "can be formed" for specific projects".

What are some alternatives to "can be formed"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "may be created", "could be generated", or "might be developed".

Is "can be formed" formal or informal?

"Can be formed" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it appears more frequently in scientific and technical writing. More informal alternatives include "can emerge" or "may arise".

What's the difference between "can be formed" and "can be created"?

While similar, "can be formed" often implies a shaping or structuring process, while "can be created" suggests bringing something entirely new into existence. For example, a team can be formed, while an idea can be created.