can be immune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be immune" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of someone or something being resistant to a particular influence, condition, or disease. Example: "Certain individuals can be immune to the virus due to their genetic makeup."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

But algorithms can be immune to its effects.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We are independent, so we can be immune to such pressures.

The New York Times - Sports

Few people can be immune to the fact that acute hospitals are heading towards a crisis.

The Guardian

Several visitors to the memorial said Portland has been fooled into believing it can be immune to the world's nastiness.

The Washington Post

No democracy can be immune to running an undemocratic system of oppression in territory under its control.

The New York Times

There is, however, a risk to this: No democracy can be immune to running an undemocratic system of oppression in territory under its control.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

It has been shown that a single point mutation in the A34R gene resulted in the production of more total progeny virus and more extracellular enveloped virus (EEV), a form that can be immune-evasive and with enhanced spread.

Molecular Therapy

Apoptotic tumor cell death can be immune-stimulatory [7].

Plosone

However, infection-induced disease can be immune-mediated (immunopathology).

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Evidence also exists to suggest that certain HERV envelope proteins can be immune-activating.

BioEssays

The hemolysis can be immune-mediated through nanoparticle-specific antibody or non-immunogenic through nanoparticle erythrocyte interaction (81).

AAPS Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing scientific or medical contexts, use “can be immune” to accurately describe potential resistance to diseases or conditions. Be specific about the factors contributing to this immunity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be immune" when describing situations where only partial protection is offered. Ensure the context clearly indicates a high degree of resistance, rather than simply a reduced risk.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be immune" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing the possibility or potential for immunity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. It modifies a subject, indicating that they possess the ability to be resistant to something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be immune" is a versatile expression used to denote the possibility of resistance or protection against a specific condition or influence. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. The analysis reveals that it is most frequently used in science and news media, conveying the potential for immunity in a specific context. When employing the phrase, it's important to consider the degree of certainty you wish to convey and avoid overstating the level of protection. Alternative phrases, such as "may be resistant" or "could be protected", offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts. By understanding these nuances, you can ensure that your writing accurately and effectively communicates the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can resist

Focuses on the ability to withstand or oppose something, rather than complete immunity.

might be resistant

Expresses possibility and focuses on resistance rather than definite immunity.

could be protected

Highlights the state of being shielded or defended against something.

may be unaffected

Emphasizes the lack of impact or influence from something.

can withstand

Focuses on the capacity to endure or tolerate adverse conditions.

might not be susceptible

Shifts the focus to a lack of vulnerability or predisposition.

could be impervious

Indicates an inability to be penetrated or affected.

may be shielded

Highlights the act of being protected from harm or influence.

can evade

Focuses on the ability to escape or avoid something.

might overcome

Emphasizes the potential to conquer or triumph over something.

FAQs

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

Use "can be immune" to describe a state of resistance to a particular disease or condition. For example, "Some people "can be immune" to certain viruses due to prior exposure or vaccination."

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

You can use alternatives like "may be resistant", "could be protected", or "might be unaffected" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "can be immune" or "is immune"?

"Can be immune" indicates a potential or possibility of immunity, while "is immune" implies a confirmed state of immunity. The choice depends on the certainty of the statement.

What's the difference between "can be immune" and "can develop immunity"?

"Can be immune" suggests a pre-existing or inherent resistance. "Can develop immunity" indicates the potential to acquire resistance over time, typically through exposure or vaccination.