can be portrayed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be portrayed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how something is represented or depicted, often in art, literature, or media. Example: "The character can be portrayed as a hero or a villain, depending on the perspective of the storyteller."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The world distribution of humidity can be portrayed for different uses by different indexes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Things such as anonymity, for example, can be portrayed more positively.

The Guardian

Still, Ghermann can be portrayed with greater subtlety than Mr. Domingo brought to the role.

The New York Times - Arts

These are solved in a numerical continuation package, such that the response far into the unstable range can be portrayed.

Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids

It says that black people feel no pain and can be portrayed walking around with their genitals in the open.

The New York Times

The risk, though, is that such an appeal, fairly or not, can be portrayed as excluding whites.

The New York Times

Constant advances in technology are leading to ever more sophisticated, compelling ways in which sports can be portrayed".

The Guardian

What Issa wants to do is manufacture something that can be portrayed as a high-level Obama administration cover-up.

The Washington Post

I do not understand how the WMAP (and earlier, less resolved COBE) picture of the CMB and the early universe can be portrayed as a two dimensional ellipse.

Cornell University

Some people suspect the Romney returns hide more information about offshore tax shelters or dealings with companies whose affairs can be portrayed as shady.

The New York Times

At its simplest, it can be portrayed as a Shakespearean drama; the ageing king who refused to loosen his grip on power.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be portrayed", ensure that the context clearly indicates who is doing the portraying and what perspective is being presented. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice when using "can be portrayed". While grammatically correct, excessive passive voice can make your writing sound weak and indirect. Consider rewriting the sentence in the active voice for a stronger impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be portrayed" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the possibility of something being represented or depicted in a particular way. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a grammatically correct and widely used expression. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

29%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be portrayed" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for indicating the possibility of something being represented or depicted in a certain way. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across diverse fields like news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, consider the context and ensure clarity regarding who is doing the portraying and what perspective is being presented. Although the passive voice is acceptable, be mindful of overuse and consider active alternatives for a stronger impact. Remember that depending on context you may want to use one of the alternative phrases like "can be depicted", "can be represented", or "can be described".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be depicted

Emphasis on visual representation; suits contexts where a visual portrayal is intended.

can be represented

Broader term indicating representation in various forms, not just visual.

can be described

Focuses on conveying information through words; useful when detailing characteristics.

can be characterized

Highlights the act of defining or categorizing something.

can be illustrated

Similar to depicted, but often suggests a more explanatory or demonstrative visual.

can be shown

Direct and simple; suitable for contexts where demonstration is key.

can be presented

Emphasizes the act of offering something for consideration or viewing.

can be viewed

Focuses on the act of perceiving or interpreting something.

can be imagined

Suggests the possibility of being conceived or visualized in the mind.

can be framed

Highlights how something is positioned or presented within a particular context.

FAQs

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

Use "can be portrayed" to describe how something or someone is represented or depicted. For example, "The character "can be portrayed" as both a hero and a villain."

What are some alternatives to "can be portrayed"?

Alternatives include "can be depicted", "can be represented", or "can be described", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "can be portrayed" or "is portrayed"?

"Can be portrayed" suggests a possibility or potential representation, while "is portrayed" indicates an actual, existing representation. Choose the phrasing that accurately reflects the situation you are describing.

In what contexts is "can be portrayed" most appropriate?

"Can be portrayed" is suitable in contexts where you are discussing the different ways something could be presented, interpreted, or depicted, especially in artistic, literary, or media contexts.