can be proposed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be proposed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a potential action or idea. For example, "A new budget plan can be proposed by the committee next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

New emojis can be proposed by companies, such as Durex condoms, and by private citizens.

The Guardian - Arts

At least two explanations can be proposed.

Protein & Cell

Certainly, more options can be proposed.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

Simple models can be proposed to describe either system.

EPJ Quantum Technology

A reaction mechanism can be proposed as described below.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Interestingly, several domain "concepts" can be proposed.

Plosone

Different scenarios can be proposed to explain our results.

Plosone

On this basis, two (non-exclusive) hypotheses can be proposed.

Plosone

Several explanations can be proposed.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Several hypotheses can be proposed.

BMC Plant Biology

Symptomatic treatment can be proposed.

European Journal of Pediatrics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be proposed" to introduce potential solutions, ideas, or explanations in a formal and neutral tone. Ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the proposing and under what circumstances.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on passive constructions like "can be proposed", as it can sometimes obscure the actor performing the action. Consider rephrasing to use active voice where appropriate for clarity and impact, such as "The committee can propose a new plan."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be proposed" functions as a modal passive construction. It indicates that something is possible or permissible to suggest, offer, or put forward as an idea or plan. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is a correct and usable part of the English language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

87%

News & Media

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be proposed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used modal passive construction that indicates possibility or permissibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid component of English, predominantly found in scientific and academic contexts. When writing, it's important to be mindful of overusing the passive voice, and considering more direct, active voice constructions for clarity. Related phrases, such as "may be suggested" or "could be offered", provide alternative ways to convey similar meanings with slight nuances. This phrase is best used in formal contexts, where it introduces potential solutions or ideas in a neutral and professional manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be suggested

Replaces "can be" with "may be", softening the assertion of possibility.

can be put forward

Replaces "proposed" with "put forward", suggesting a more forceful presentation of an idea.

could be offered

Substitutes "proposed" with "offered", suggesting a presentation for consideration.

may be recommended

Suggests that something is suitable to be advised or advocated.

might be presented

Emphasizes the potential for something to be introduced or displayed.

can be submitted

Implies a formal process for presenting an idea or application.

can be considered

Indicates that something is worthy of thought or evaluation.

is capable of being suggested

A more verbose alternative emphasizing the inherent possibility of suggestion.

is able to be advanced

Highlights the capability of an idea or plan to progress or be promoted.

is open to suggestion

Focuses on the receptiveness to new ideas rather than the act of proposing.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be proposed" to suggest that something is possible to suggest or put forward as an idea. For instance, "Several solutions "can be proposed" to address the problem".

What are some alternatives to "can be proposed"?

Some alternatives include "may be suggested", "could be offered", or "might be presented", each with slightly different nuances.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "can be proposed"?

While "can be proposed" is grammatically correct, using the active voice (e.g., "The team can propose...") can often make your writing more direct and engaging. However, the passive voice may be preferable when the actor is unknown or unimportant.

What is the difference between "can be proposed" and "should be proposed"?

"Can be proposed" indicates possibility, while "should be proposed" implies a recommendation or obligation. The former suggests that something is feasible, whereas the latter suggests that something is advisable.