can be identified

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be identified" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is recognizable or able to be distinguished from something else. For example, "The different species of birds in the wetland can be identified by their distinct coloring."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can be identified with.

The Guardian - Opinion

Five sections can be identified.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Surely, many of these vulnerable children can be identified.

The New York Times

Drunken drivers can be identified using a Breathalyzer.

The New York Times - Tech

The boy's mother can be identified only as BHM.

The Guardian - Books

Few torturers, even when they can be identified, are punished.

The New York Times

All have unique qualities by which they can be identified.

The New York Times

Based on the fragments, whole genes can be identified.

The New York Times - Science

"If they have a driver's license they can be identified".

The New York Times

Flame failure can be identified.

Chemical Engineering Science

Three regimes can be identified.

Advanced Structural and Chemical Imaging

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be identified", ensure the subject performing the identification is either explicitly stated or clearly implied within the context. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "can be identified" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make writing sound weak or indirect. Consider using active voice constructions when possible to improve clarity and conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be identified" functions primarily as a passive construction, indicating that something is capable of being recognized or determined. Ludwig examples show its widespread use in various contexts, as also confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be identified" is a common and grammatically correct passive construction used to indicate the ability to recognize or distinguish something. Ludwig's analysis of various sources reveals its prevalent use in scientific and news media contexts. While grammatically sound, writers should be mindful of potential overuse of passive voice, which can weaken writing. Alternatives like "is detectable" or "is recognizable" may offer more direct and concise options. Overall, "can be identified" is a versatile phrase suitable for a range of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is detectable

This alternative suggests the presence of something that can be noticed or found.

is recognizable

This alternative focuses on the ability to recognize something based on prior knowledge or characteristics.

is discernible

This alternative emphasizes the ability to perceive or distinguish something, often with effort.

is distinguishable

This alternative highlights the capacity to differentiate something from other things.

is determinable

This alternative indicates that something can be ascertained or established with certainty.

can be spotted

This alternative focuses on the act of noticing something quickly or easily.

can be noticed

This alternative suggests something is easily observed or attracts attention.

can be pinpointed

This alternative focuses on identifying something precisely and accurately.

can be located

This alternative emphasizes the ability to find something's position or place.

is traceable

This alternative suggests something's origin or path can be followed and identified.

FAQs

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

Use "can be identified" to indicate that something is recognizable or distinguishable. For example, "The source of the error "can be identified" by examining the logs".

What are some alternatives to "can be identified"?

Alternatives include "is detectable", "is recognizable", or "is discernible", depending on the specific context.

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

While "can be identified" is in passive voice, using the active voice may improve clarity. For example, instead of "The problem "can be identified"", consider "Researchers can identify the problem".

What does it mean when something "can be identified"?

When something "can be identified", it means it is possible to recognize it, distinguish it from other things, or determine its nature or origin.