can be opposed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be opposed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is capable of being resisted or challenged. Example: "The proposed changes to the policy can be opposed by any member of the committee."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Real justice, democracy, and happiness can be opposed to apparent justice, democracy, and happiness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Just so, you can be opposed to capitalism, or "globalization," without wishing to unleash or condone suicide attacks on Manhattan.

The New York Times - Magazine

"For Greeks, this is a matter of national dignity and a national strategic choice and no other integrated and responsible choice can be opposed to it," he declared.

The Guardian

Ultimately, the stories in your series are stories of love, and it's hard to see how anyone can be opposed to love.

The Guardian

"Who can be opposed to a hug from a tall, beautiful woman?" said Kati Marton, author of "Hidden Power," about presidential marriages.

The New York Times

Each foot can thus be divided into an outer and an inner portion, which can be opposed as the branch is gripped.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The direction of these changes can be opposing to include inhibited neuronal synchronization [4] and supra-synchronization sufficient to provoke seizure activity [5].

Plosone

The result in vivo can be opposing effects depending on which isotype is activated: induction of adipogenesis (PPARγ) or fatty acid oxidation (PPARα, PPARβ).

Environmental Health Perspectives

While a shortage in precipitation might be worse than elevated temperatures, it can be mitigated relatively easily by irrigation while the latter can hardly be opposed.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Obama can never be opposed vehemently enough.

The New Yorker

This vulnerability can only be opposed by chemical modification of the aptamers [ 1].

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be opposed" to indicate the possibility of resistance or disagreement, especially in contexts where differing viewpoints or actions are expected.

Common error

Avoid using "can be opposed" excessively in passive voice constructions, which can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Consider active voice alternatives when appropriate to convey a stronger sense of agency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be opposed" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing possibility or permissibility related to resistance or disagreement. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It highlights the potential for something to be challenged or resisted.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be opposed" is a grammatically sound modal verb phrase used to express the possibility of resistance or disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable in written English across various contexts. Its neutral register makes it versatile for both formal and informal writing. While not extremely common, its presence in news media, scientific literature and encyclopedias ensures its relevance and appropriateness in discussions where differing viewpoints or challenges are anticipated. Remember to avoid overuse in passive constructions for a stronger writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be resisted

This alternative focuses on the act of resisting, implying a direct confrontation or struggle.

can be challenged

This alternative emphasizes questioning or disputing something, suggesting a more intellectual approach.

can be countered

This alternative highlights the act of opposing with an equivalent force or argument.

can be defied

This alternative implies a bold or open resistance to authority or power.

can be combated

This alternative suggests a more active and forceful opposition, implying a battle or struggle.

can be fought

This alternative is a direct and forceful way of expressing opposition, often implying a conflict.

can be contended with

This alternative suggests dealing with opposition, highlighting the process of managing or overcoming it.

can be struggled against

This alternative emphasizes the effort and difficulty involved in opposing something.

can be stood against

This alternative implies a firm and unwavering resistance, often in the face of adversity.

can be withstood

This alternative focuses on enduring or surviving opposition, highlighting resilience.

FAQs

How to use "can be opposed" in a sentence?

The phrase "can be opposed" indicates that something is capable of being resisted or challenged. For example: "The proposed changes "can be opposed" by any member of the committee".

What can I say instead of "can be opposed"?

You can use alternatives like "can be resisted", "can be challenged", or "can be countered" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be opposed" or "could be opposed"?

Both ""can be opposed"" and "could be opposed" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Can be opposed" indicates a possibility, while "could be opposed" suggests a conditional or hypothetical situation.

What's the difference between "can be opposed" and "is opposed to"?

"Can be opposed" implies a potential for opposition, whereas "is opposed to" indicates an existing state of disagreement or resistance. One describes a possibility, the other a current condition.