can be ignited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be ignited" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing materials or substances that have the potential to catch fire under certain conditions. Example: "The dry leaves can be ignited easily during the hot summer months, posing a fire hazard."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The dried gel can be ignited at different temperatures above its ignition point (little higher than 200°C as measured below).

Nanoscale Research Letters

People can be ignited by anything.

The Guardian

This mixture can be ignited using the energy of bigger shock waves entering the combustion chamber.

The Economist

Any time the issue can be ignited in politics, those who want to divide women gain.

The New Yorker

Global poverty is a powder keg that can be ignited by our indifference".

The New York Times

Under normal inlet temperature, this combustor can be ignited easily with normal and negative inlet pressures.

Chinese Journal of Aeronautics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

The leaves can be squeezed to release the aromatic oil into the air, which can then be ignited by a match.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The discharge can also be ignited at a lower pressure in the presence of a magnetic field.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Peat can then be ignited by wildfires or spontaneously combust.

BBC

In fact, we have noticed that the dried gel can even be ignited by a cigarette lighter.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The results indicate that the samples with more than 70 wt.% metals can still be ignited easily because of the high activity of the CNT.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing materials, use "can be ignited" to clearly indicate the potential for fire under specific conditions. For instance, "Dry leaves can be ignited easily by a spark."

Common error

Avoid using "can be ignited" metaphorically when a more precise term would be appropriate. Instead of saying "His anger can be ignited easily", consider "He is easily angered" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be ignited" functions as a passive verb phrase. It indicates the potential for something to undergo the action of being lit or set on fire. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing the flammability of various materials and substances.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

41%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be ignited" is a common and grammatically correct passive verb phrase used to describe the potential for something to catch fire under certain conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate across various contexts, including science, news, and general discussions about fire safety. While alternatives like "is flammable" exist, "can be ignited" emphasizes the action or possibility of combustion. Be mindful of overuse in metaphorical contexts, opting for more precise language when necessary. With a strong presence in both scientific and news sources, this phrase serves as a valuable tool for clear and informative communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can catch fire

A more direct and common way to express the potential for ignition.

is flammable

Emphasizes the inherent property of being able to burn easily.

is ignitable

Highlights the ability to be ignited.

is combustible

Similar to flammable, but often used in more technical contexts.

can be set alight

Focuses on the action of igniting something.

can be combusted

Focuses on the process of being burned.

is capable of combustion

A more formal and scientific way to describe the potential for burning.

is prone to ignition

Indicates a higher likelihood of being ignited.

can start a fire

Emphasizes the consequence of ignition.

can burst into flames

Suggests a more rapid and dramatic ignition.

FAQs

What does "can be ignited" mean?

The phrase "can be ignited" means that something has the potential to catch fire and start burning under the right conditions, such as the presence of heat or a spark.

What are some alternatives to "can be ignited"?

Alternatives include "is flammable", "is combustible", or "can catch fire". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How is "can be ignited" used in a sentence?

It's used to describe something's potential for combustion: "The gas leaking from the stove can be ignited by a spark."

Is it better to use "can be ignited" or "is flammable"?

Both are correct, but "is flammable" typically describes an inherent property, while "can be ignited" describes a potential action. For example, "Gasoline is flammable" vs. "Gasoline vapors can be ignited by a flame."