can be illustrated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be illustrated" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea that something can be demonstrated or shown to add clarity to an explanation. For example, you could say: The concept of atmospheric pressure can be illustrated with the example of a shaken can of soda.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This point can be illustrated visually.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The choices can be illustrated by other contemporary cases.

The Guardian

Marginal utility can be illustrated by the following example.

Britannica

This can be illustrated by the technique of functional costing.

Britannica

This, too, can be illustrated with a parable.

The Guardian

The difference can be illustrated with copies of the Bible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This proposition can be illustrated with an analogy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This sensitivity can be illustrated by the following considerations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This can be illustrated in two extreme situations.

Aquaculture

It can be illustrated with photographs or a short video clip.

The Guardian

Waldo's charm and aplomb can be illustrated by a typical bit of lateral thinking.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be illustrated", ensure the illustration directly supports and clarifies the point being made. A weak illustration can confuse the reader.

Common error

Avoid using vague or commonly known examples when you want to express "can be illustrated". Choose specific and relevant examples that add depth and insight to your explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be illustrated" functions as an auxiliary verb phrase, indicating the possibility or ability to provide an example or demonstration. It is commonly used to introduce explanations or clarify concepts, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

20%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be illustrated" is a versatile tool for clarifying complex ideas. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse fields, particularly in science, encyclopedias, and news media. Alternatives like ""can be exemplified"" or ""can be demonstrated"" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Remember to use specific and relevant examples to maximize the impact of your illustration. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "can be illustrated" to enhance understanding and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be exemplified

Replaces "illustrated" with "exemplified", focusing on providing a specific example.

can be demonstrated

Substitutes "illustrated" with "demonstrated", highlighting a more active showing of proof or evidence.

can be shown

Uses "shown" instead of "illustrated", offering a more straightforward and direct way to present information.

can be clarified

Replaces "illustrated" with "clarified", emphasizing the act of making something easier to understand.

can be explained

Substitutes "illustrated" with "explained", focusing on providing a detailed account to enhance understanding.

can be presented

Uses "presented" instead of "illustrated", suggesting a more formal or structured display of information.

can be depicted

Replaces "illustrated" with "depicted", implying a visual representation or portrayal.

can be portrayed

Substitutes "illustrated" with "portrayed", emphasizing a specific interpretation or perspective.

can be highlighted

Uses "highlighted" instead of "illustrated", focusing on drawing attention to key aspects.

can be underscored

Replaces "illustrated" with "underscored", emphasizing the importance or significance of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be illustrated" to introduce an example that clarifies a concept. For instance, "The concept of supply and demand "can be illustrated" with the market for gasoline."

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

Alternatives to "can be illustrated" include "can be exemplified", "can be demonstrated", or "can be shown" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "can be illustrated" or "is illustrated"?

"Can be illustrated" suggests the possibility of providing an example, while "is illustrated" states that an example is currently being provided. The choice depends on whether you are introducing an example or already presenting it.

What's the difference between "can be illustrated" and "can be explained"?

"Can be illustrated" implies using an example or visual aid to clarify something. "Can be explained" suggests providing a detailed account or reason. For instance, a complex process "can be explained" step by step, while a concept "can be illustrated" with a diagram.