can be obtained

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be obtained" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is possible or available to obtain. Example: "A copy of your birth certificate can be obtained from your local government office."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A card can be obtained through www.organdonor.gov.

The New York Times - Health

Tickets can be obtained via Eventbrite.

The Guardian

Cloning details can be obtained on request.

Nature

The Mathematica program can be obtained here.

Harvard University

These DVDs can be obtained from www.becketfilms.com.

Yale University

The movie can be obtained here.

Harvard University

Previous versions can be obtained from here.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Windows can be obtained free of charge*.

University of California, Berkeley

The DVD can be obtained here.

Harvard University

Both can be obtained easily, Mr. Nikolopoulos said.

The New York Times

(More information can be obtained on the Internet at www.thelastsupper.info).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be obtained", ensure the subject and object are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify where or how the subject "can be obtained".

Common error

While "can be obtained" is grammatically correct, excessive use of passive voice can make writing sound weak. Consider active voice alternatives when appropriate to create a more direct and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be obtained" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility of acquiring something. It highlights that the action of obtaining is possible, but doesn't specify who or what is doing the obtaining. Ludwig provides examples across various fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be obtained" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive construction that indicates the possibility of acquiring something. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical validity and provides numerous examples from diverse sources, including scientific journals, news outlets, and academic publications. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to consider the context and audience when choosing between passive and active voice. Alternatives like "is available" or "may be acquired" offer subtle variations in meaning and formality. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "can be obtained" to convey information about accessibility and possibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is obtainable

Replaces the passive voice with an adjective, emphasizing the quality of being able to be obtained.

is available

Focuses on the availability rather than the act of obtaining.

may be acquired

Uses a more formal verb, "acquired", and the modal verb "may", indicating a slightly higher register and possibility.

is accessible

Highlights the ease of access rather than the act of obtaining.

can be accessed

Similar to "is accessible" but maintains the passive voice.

is procurable

Employs a less common, more formal word, "procurable", suggesting a more deliberate effort to obtain something.

can be secured

Implies effort and competition in obtaining something.

is within reach

Suggests that something is easily attainable, emphasizing proximity.

can be gotten

Uses a more informal verb, "gotten", making the phrase less formal.

is on offer

Focuses on the offering of something, implying it is readily available.

FAQs

How do I use "can be obtained" in a sentence?

Use "can be obtained" to indicate that something is available or possible to acquire. For example, "Information "can be obtained" from the website".

What are some alternatives to "can be obtained"?

You can use alternatives such as "is available", "may be acquired", or "can be accessed" depending on the context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice when describing how something is acquired?

While "can be obtained" (passive voice) is correct, using active voice (e.g., "you can get") can often make your writing more direct and engaging. Choose the voice that best suits the desired tone and clarity.

What is the difference between "can be obtained" and "is obtainable"?

"Can be obtained" is a verb phrase in the passive voice, while "is obtainable" uses an adjective. They both indicate possibility, but "is obtainable" emphasizes the inherent quality of being able to be obtained.