can be gotten

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'can be gotten' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that can be obtained or acquired. For example, "This information can be gotten online."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The gas can explosions can be powerful.

The New York Times

"Things can happen, guys can be vulnerable".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Exceptions can be made.

Independent

It can be decisive.

The New York Times

Villainy can be delightful.

The New York Times

Macrosonophones can be heard.

The New Yorker

Lying can be subjective.

The New Yorker

Everything can be fixed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Daycare can be groovy.

The New Yorker

Roads can be hazardous.

The New York Times

It can be sneaky".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically sound, consider using more common alternatives like "can be obtained" or "can be acquired" to enhance clarity and readability for a broader audience.

Common error

Avoid relying heavily on passive constructions like "can be gotten", as it can make your writing sound less direct and engaging. Opt for active voice where appropriate to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be gotten" functions as a passive construction, indicating the possibility of obtaining or acquiring something. While grammatically correct, it's less frequently used compared to its alternatives. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be gotten" is grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, but it is not commonly used in formal or professional contexts. Its function is to indicate the possibility of obtaining something, but more common and formal alternatives such as "can be obtained" or "can be acquired" are often preferred. Due to its infrequency, it's advisable to use these alternatives to ensure clarity and maintain a professional tone. The phrase's usage leans towards informal settings, making it less suitable for academic or business writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be obtained

Replaces "gotten" with a more formal synonym, "obtained", indicating acquisition in a more official or structured context.

can be acquired

Similar to "can be obtained", "acquired" suggests gaining possession of something, often through effort or specific means.

can be received

Focuses on the act of receiving, implying that something is given or transferred to someone.

can be found

Suggests that something exists and is discoverable, implying a search or investigation may be required.

can be accessed

Implies the ability to reach or retrieve something, often referring to information or resources.

can be secured

Suggests obtaining something with effort, often implying a competitive or protective action.

can be attained

Implies reaching a goal or achieving a certain status or level.

can be procured

Suggests obtaining something, often through formal or commercial channels.

is achievable

Emphasizes the feasibility of reaching a certain outcome or goal.

is available

Indicates that something is accessible and ready for use or acquisition.

FAQs

What does "can be gotten" mean?

The phrase "can be gotten" means that something is able to be obtained or acquired. It indicates the possibility of receiving or gaining something.

What are some alternatives to "can be gotten"?

You can use alternatives like "can be obtained", "can be acquired", or "can be found" depending on the specific context.

Is "can be gotten" formal or informal?

The phrase "can be gotten" leans towards informal usage. In formal writing, it's often better to opt for alternatives like "can be obtained" or "can be acquired".

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

You can use "can be gotten" in a sentence like: "The information you need "can be gotten" from the library." However, consider using a more formal alternative in professional contexts.