can be picked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be picked" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is available for selection or choice. Example: "The apples from this tree can be picked when they are ripe."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Locks can be picked.

The New York Times - Tech

Some can be picked up easily.

Independent

Tickets can be picked up at dinner.

Harvard University

Attendance forms can be picked up in the MAC.

Columbia University

The CD can be picked up at the show.

University of California, Berkeley

Exams can be picked up in my office.

Princeton University

Holes can be picked in much of this.

Independent

Most nonspecialized skills can be picked up on the job.

The New York Times - Magazine

It can be picked up by the shovelful.

Independent

This form can be picked up in the Student Activities or Finance offices.

Columbia University

Graded homework assignments can be picked up in Upson 360 on weekdays during 12pm 4pm.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be picked", ensure the context is clear about who or what is doing the picking. For example, specify whether items "can be picked by customers" or "can be picked by a machine" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid overusing passive voice with "can be picked" as it can make sentences less direct. Instead of "Mistakes can be picked out by editors", try the more active construction, "Editors can pick out mistakes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be picked" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility or permission for something to be selected or gathered. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity. Examples from Ludwig show its use in various contexts, from physical objects to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

37%

News & Media

32%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be picked" is a grammatically sound and versatile construction used to express the possibility or permissibility of selection or gathering. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage across diverse fields. While "can be picked" is prevalent in academia, news media, and scientific contexts, it is essential to ensure clarity regarding the agent performing the picking. Mindful avoidance of overuse in passive voice ensures writing remains direct and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be chosen

Focuses on the act of selection, emphasizing choice rather than physical action.

can be selected

Similar to 'can be chosen' but often implies a more formal or systematic selection process.

are available for picking

Rephrases to emphasize availability and the action of picking, useful for literal contexts.

are eligible for selection

Highlights eligibility as a prerequisite for selection, suitable for formal contexts.

can be gathered

Implies a collection or harvesting process, more suitable for physical items.

can be obtained

Suggests acquiring something, either physically or abstractly, emphasizing access.

can be retrieved

Implies getting something back or recovering it, often from a stored location.

may be harvested

Specifically relates to harvesting, often in agricultural or resource management contexts.

can be handpicked

Emphasizes that the selection process involves someone carefully selecting one by one.

may be singled out

Highlights the act of choosing one thing from many, indicating distinction.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be picked" indicates availability or possibility for selection or gathering. Example: "The best apples "can be picked" from the top branches".

What are some alternatives to saying "can be picked"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "can be chosen", "can be selected", or "are available for picking".

Is it more appropriate to say "can be picked" or "can be chosen"?

While both are valid, "can be picked" often implies a physical action of gathering or selecting, whereas "can be chosen" suggests a more general selection process. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "can be picked" and "can be harvested"?

"Can be picked" has a broader meaning, indicating something is available to be taken. "Can be harvested" is more specific, referring to the gathering of crops or other resources when they are ripe or ready.