can be inspired

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be inspired" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential for someone or something to draw motivation or creativity from a source. Example: "Many artists can be inspired by nature, leading to breathtaking works of art."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can be inspired by materials most of the time I design based on the inspiration brought by materials.

Vice

The results can be inspired or peculiar.

The New York Times - Food

But in the right repertory he can be inspired.

The New York Times - Arts

People can be inspired or limited by what they see.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We can't all be Micah True, but we can be inspired by his humanity.

The New York Times - Sports

"You can be inspired by Michael Phelps or Katie Ledecky," said Moorhouse.

Independent

If they can be inspired then, why not a potential investor?

The Guardian

Cink is hopeful he and Kuchar can be inspired by playing on foreign soil.

The Guardian - Sport

Wrinkles are a male invention!" — the film's diverse-looking feminists can be inspired.

The New Yorker

"We have to keep believing we can be inspired by others".

The New York Times

It can be inspired, ordinary or just plain wrongheaded, in a fascinating way.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be inspired", consider specifying the source of inspiration to provide context and clarity. For example, "Artists can be inspired by nature" is more informative than simply "Artists can be inspired".

Common error

Avoid using "can be inspired" when a stronger, more definitive statement is appropriate. If the inspiration is guaranteed or highly likely, consider using phrases like "will be inspired" or "is inspired" to reflect the certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be inspired" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the potential to receive inspiration. As Ludwig AI highlights, it suggests a possibility rather than a certainty. The modal verb "can" expresses possibility or ability, while "be inspired" is in the passive voice, indicating that the subject receives the action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be inspired" is a versatile phrase used to express the potential for something or someone to receive inspiration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. Its function as a modal passive construction indicates a possibility rather than a certainty. The phrase is commonly found in news and media, and science contexts, but its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of writing. When using "can be inspired", it's important to consider specifying the source of inspiration and avoiding overstating the certainty of the outcome. Alternatives such as "can draw inspiration" or "may be influenced" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can draw inspiration

Emphasizes the act of actively taking inspiration from a source.

can find motivation

Focuses on the potential to discover or obtain motivation.

can gain stimulus

Highlights the potential to receive a stimulating influence.

can derive encouragement

Stresses the potential to obtain encouragement.

may be influenced

Focuses on the potential for being affected or changed by something.

might be motivated

Expresses a possibility of being given an incentive to do something.

could be affected

Highlights the possibility of something having an impact.

may glean insights

Focuses on obtaining insights or understanding.

can foster creativity

Highlights the potential to stimulate creativity.

might spark ingenuity

Emphasizes the chance for ingenuity to be ignited.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be inspired" to describe the potential for someone or something to draw motivation or creativity from a source. For example, "Many artists "can be inspired" by nature, leading to breathtaking works of art".

What are some alternatives to "can be inspired"?

Alternatives include "can draw inspiration", "can find motivation", or "may be influenced", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "can be inspired by" or "is inspired by"?

"Can be inspired by" suggests a potential for inspiration, while "is inspired by" indicates that inspiration has already occurred. The choice depends on whether you're describing a possibility or a current state.

What is the difference between "can be inspired" and "can inspire"?

"Can be inspired" means that someone or something has the potential to receive inspiration. "Can inspire" means that someone or something has the potential to provide inspiration to others. They have opposite meanings.