Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
can be now
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "can be now" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express a current possibility or state, but it lacks clarity and context. Example: "This opportunity can be now available for you if you act quickly."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
News & Media
Academia
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Partnering can be now touching, now funny.
News & Media
Perhaps these can be now added to the science list.
News & Media
A wide range of functional molecules can be now applied for the fabrication of desired microstructures.
Application to probabilistic assessment of cumulative damage and further program enhancement can be now envisaged.
I'm the best I can be now, but less than I was".
News & Media
Every page says: this is what French cooking can be now.
News & Media
It can be now, [until] December, one year or for ever.
News & Media
The models predictive capabilities were established, and can be now safely used in further improving and extending the design.
Science
Here is a painter who seems to be in love with his medium and what it can be, now.
News & Media
My assistant, Joseph Plambeck, has checked out the program and it appears that reader messages can be now be sent.
News & Media
Classically performed through the transoral approach, the exposure of this region can be now achieved by a minimally invasive endonasal endoscopic approach (EEA).
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Always prioritize grammatical correctness by using "can now be" instead of "can be now". This maintains clarity and avoids confusion.
Common error
Avoid placing "now" between "can" and "be". The correct word order is "can now be", which ensures grammatical accuracy and clarity.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "can be now" functions as a modal phrase indicating possibility or potential at the present time. While frequently used, as indicated by the examples in Ludwig, it is considered grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "can now be".
Frequent in
Science
41%
News & Media
37%
Academia
15%
Less common in
Wiki
3%
Formal & Business
2%
Reference
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while the phrase "can be now" appears frequently in various contexts, it's important to note, as Ludwig AI points out, that it is grammatically incorrect. The proper phrasing is "can now be". Although "can be now" attempts to express something is currently possible, its incorrect structure undermines its clarity and professionalism. When writing, particularly in formal or scientific contexts, it's advisable to use the grammatically correct alternative to maintain accuracy and credibility. Numerous alternatives exist, such as "can currently be" or "is now able to be", depending on the intended nuance. Always prioritize grammatical accuracy for clear and effective communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
can now be
Reverses the order of "now" and "be" for a grammatically correct structure.
is now able to be
Emphasizes the ability to be in a certain state at the present time.
can currently be
Highlights the present time frame for something being possible.
is now capable of being
Focuses on the capability or potential at the present moment.
is now the time to be
Shifts the focus to the timing, indicating the present is the opportune moment.
has now become
Highlights the change of state that has occurred up to the present.
will now be
Shifts the focus to the future and what will be possible moving forward.
is presently being
Highlights that an action is currently in progress.
is now in the process of being
Emphasizes an ongoing process that is happening right now.
is at this moment
Focuses on the very present and what is happening right now.
FAQs
What is the correct way to phrase "can be now"?
The grammatically correct way to phrase it is "can now be". This ensures clarity and avoids grammatical errors.
Why is "can be now" considered grammatically incorrect?
The placement of "now" between "can" and "be" disrupts the standard English sentence structure. The adverb "now" should typically follow the modal verb "can" for correct phrasing, resulting in "can now be".
Are there situations where "can be now" is acceptable?
While "can be now" may appear in some informal contexts, it is generally considered grammatically incorrect in formal writing. It's best to use "can now be" to ensure clarity and correctness.
What are some alternative phrases to "can be now" that convey the same meaning?
Alternatives include "is now able to be", "can currently be", or "is now capable of being", depending on the specific context you're trying to convey.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested