can be pushed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be pushed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate that something is capable of being moved or urged forward, either physically or metaphorically. Example: "The boundaries of innovation can be pushed further with the right resources and mindset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And we can be pushed too far.

The New York Times

But with AI boundaries can be pushed.

The Guardian - Tech

In an economic sense, the poor can be pushed out.

Cornell University

Men, after all, can be pushed only so far.

The New York Times

This can be pushed or driven around the set.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"I'm really curious about how far it can be pushed".

The New York Times

The question is how far it can be pushed.

The New York Times - Science

The date can be pushed back, of course.

The New York Times

Of course, this can be pushed too far.

The Guardian

But the idea can be pushed only so far.

The New York Times - Arts

If Brown can be pushed, then this is the time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be pushed", ensure the context clearly indicates what is doing the pushing and what is being pushed. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the sentence's meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "can be pushed" excessively in passive constructions, as it can weaken the writing. Opt for active voice where possible to make your writing more direct and engaging. For instance, instead of "The deadline can be pushed," consider "We can extend the deadline".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be pushed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that something is capable of being acted upon or moved by an external force. This is supported by the examples Ludwig provides, showcasing its use in various contexts where something is being influenced or advanced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

30%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be pushed" is a versatile passive verb phrase used to express the potential for something to be moved, influenced, or advanced. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across a wide range of contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While it's important to be mindful of overuse and consider active voice alternatives for more direct writing, "can be pushed" remains a valuable tool for conveying possibilities and limitations in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be advanced

Focuses on the possibility of something being moved forward or improved.

can be influenced

Highlights the potential for something to be affected or changed by external factors.

can be propelled

Emphasizes the ability to be driven or forced in a particular direction.

can be promoted

Suggests the capacity for something to be encouraged or supported to a higher position.

can be motivated

Indicates the potential for someone or something to be inspired or driven to action.

can be pressured

Highlights the possibility of being urged or coerced to do something.

can be persuaded

Focuses on the ability to convince someone to believe or do something.

can be shifted

Emphasizes the ability to change position or direction.

can be displaced

Suggests the capacity to be moved from its usual place.

can be triggered

Highlights the possibility of initiating a process or reaction.

FAQs

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

Use "can be pushed" to indicate that something is capable of being moved, advanced, or influenced. For example, "The boundaries of innovation "can be pushed" with the right resources" or "The negotiations "can be pushed" further if both parties are willing to compromise".

What are some alternatives to "can be pushed"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "can be advanced", "can be influenced", "can be propelled", or "can be extended". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

While "can be pushed" is grammatically correct, using the active voice often results in a more direct and engaging sentence. For example, instead of "The date "can be pushed" back", consider "We can push the date back".

What does it mean when something "can be pushed too far"?

When something ""can be pushed" too far", it means that there is a limit to how much pressure, influence, or advancement it can withstand before negative consequences occur. It suggests exceeding reasonable or safe boundaries.