can be lifted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be lifted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is capable of being raised or removed from a position. Example: "The heavy box can be lifted with the help of two people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They can be lifted swiftly".

The New York Times

That statement can be lifted out of context.

Independent

The wage freeze will last a year, but can be lifted early at the board's discretion.

The New York Times

A ring, with a jeweled green finger piece, can be lifted out from its companions.

The New York Times

For that matter, nobody watching "Up" thinks that a house can be lifted by balloons.

The New Yorker

Its scope varies widely, as does the ease with which it can be lifted.

The Economist

"They can be lifted if the reasons why they were introduced are removed.

Independent

The Ministry of Justice is investigating whether the caps on such fines can be lifted altogether.

Independent

But the foundations need reinforcing before those parts can be lifted to their original position.

The New York Times - Arts

But as soon as they can be lifted, they should be pricked out into plugs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not ideal for anything, really, but they can be lifted and made into soup.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process, use "can be lifted" to clearly indicate the stage at which an object or restriction is capable of being removed or raised. For example: "Once the glue has dried, the protective film can be lifted."

Common error

Avoid using "can be lifted" when a different verb more accurately describes the action. For example, instead of "the ban can be lifted" (referring to sanctions), consider "the ban can be repealed" if you specifically mean to overturn the ban entirely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be lifted" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility or ability for something to be raised or removed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound way to express that something is capable of being lifted, whether physically or metaphorically.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be lifted" is a versatile and grammatically correct passive construction indicating the possibility of raising or removing something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, from describing physical actions to the removal of restrictions. It's particularly common in News & Media and Science, and while its register is neutral, careful attention should be paid to selecting the most precise verb (e.g., repealed, alleviated) to convey the intended meaning. Consider alternatives like "can be raised" or "can be removed" for greater clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be raised

Replaces 'lifted' with 'raised', focusing on the action of increasing height or level.

is capable of being lifted

Adds a level of formality by using 'is capable of being' instead of 'can be'.

can be elevated

Similar to 'raised' but suggests a more significant increase in status or position.

may be lifted

Uses 'may' to indicate a possibility or permission for something to be lifted.

could be lifted

Suggests a conditional possibility of something being lifted, often depending on certain circumstances.

can be removed

Focuses on the action of taking something away or off.

can be detached

Implies something is able to be separated or disconnected.

can be alleviated

Shifts the meaning to easing or reducing something negative, like a burden or restriction.

can be repealed

Specifically refers to the cancellation or reversal of a law or regulation.

can be rescinded

Similar to 'repealed', indicating the formal withdrawal of a decision or agreement.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be lifted" indicates the possibility of raising or removing something. Example: "The heavy lid "can be lifted" with a lever."

What's a good alternative to "can be lifted"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "can be raised", "can be removed", or "is capable of being lifted".

When is it appropriate to use "can be alleviated" instead of "can be lifted"?

Use "can be alleviated" when referring to easing a burden or reducing a problem. For example, "The financial strain "can be alleviated" by government subsidies", rather than "can be lifted."

In what scenarios might "can be repealed" be more fitting than "can be lifted"?

"Can be repealed" is more suitable when discussing the cancellation of a law or regulation. For instance, "The outdated law "can be repealed" after a review", instead of saying "can be lifted".