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 quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

can be now

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE 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

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Partnering can be now touching, now funny.

Perhaps these can be now added to the science list.

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".

Every page says: this is what French cooking can be now.

It can be now, [until] December, one year or for ever.

The models predictive capabilities were established, and can be now safely used in further improving and extending the design.

Here is a painter who seems to be in love with his medium and what it can be, now.

My assistant, Joseph Plambeck, has checked out the program and it appears that reader messages can be now be sent.

News & Media

The New York Times

Classically performed through the transoral approach, the exposure of this region can be now achieved by a minimally invasive endonasal endoscopic approach (EEA).

Show more...

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.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

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".

Expression frequency: Very common

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.

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.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

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.

Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

2.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: