can be governing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be governing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing the potential for something to exert control or influence over something else. Example: "In certain political systems, a strong leader can be governing the actions of the entire government."

✓ Grammatically correct

Engineering Structures

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Results indicated that both external and internal failure modes can be governing criteria in determining the required minimum reinforcement length depending on the parameters involved for a specific wall.

Engineering Structures

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Our second assumption is that, although networks can be governed by means of different types of governance mechanisms, the governance structure is associated with a particular governance mechanism that will be more suited in a certain governance structure.

BMC Health Services Research

President Hamid Karzai's corrupt government demonstrates that there is no plausible way Afghanistan can be governed from Kabul as a single administrative unit.

The New York Times

Neither Brussels nor Belgium can be governed without federal authority.

The New Yorker

We do not think Britain can be governed properly under them.

The Guardian

"I am happy we have reached a deal that means that Sweden can be governed".

Independent

No modern country can be governed from a single location only.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Chavismo has demonstrated, among many other things, that a country can be governed without its leaders ever doing anything predictable.

The New Yorker

If they are economic and their extraction can be governed by suitable environmental protocols - as is scientific research - what is the problem?

The Guardian - Opinion

Some people bristle at the notion that an ancient practice aimed at health and enlightenment can be governed by copyright and trademark laws.

The New York Times

But the NF programme amounts to saying that France can be governed from the left and right at the same time.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be governing", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being controlled or influenced. This phrase is best suited for formal writing where you want to express the potential for one factor to dominate or dictate another.

Common error

Avoid using "can be governing" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for more natural-sounding alternatives like "can control" or "can influence" to maintain a consistent tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be governing" functions as part of a verb phrase, indicating a potential or ongoing ability to exert control or influence. It suggests that something has the capacity to dictate or determine the course of events, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

100%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be governing" is a grammatically sound way to express the potential for something to exert control or influence. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its relatively low frequency suggests it's best reserved for formal or scientific contexts. Consider alternatives like "can be controlling" or "can be influencing" for broader applicability. When using "can be governing", ensure the context clearly indicates what's being influenced and avoid using it in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be controlling

Focuses more directly on the act of control, suggesting active management or direction.

can be directing

Implies guidance or leadership, suggesting a more intentional form of influence.

can be influencing

Highlights the effect on something, rather than direct control.

can be determining

Emphasizes the act of deciding or settling something conclusively.

can be dictating

Suggests a more forceful and authoritative influence.

can be regulating

Implies a systematic method of control, often through rules or laws.

can be managing

Focuses on overseeing and handling something, often a process or system.

can be guiding

Emphasizes providing direction and support, rather than direct control.

can be presiding over

Suggests a formal role of authority or leadership.

can be overseeing

Implies a supervisory role, ensuring things are done correctly.

FAQs

How can I use "can be governing" in a sentence?

You can use "can be governing" to describe something that has the potential to control or influence a situation or outcome. For example, "External factors "can be governing" the success of the project depending on market conditions."

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

Alternatives to "can be governing" include "can be controlling", "can be influencing", or "can be determining", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "can be governing" or "can govern"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Can govern" implies a direct ability to control, while "can be governing" suggests a potential or ongoing influence. The better choice depends on the context.

What's the difference between "can be governing" and "can be regulated by"?

"Can be governing" implies that something has the ability to exert control or influence, whereas "can be regulated by" suggests that something is subject to control or rules. They describe opposite relationships.