can be read

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be read" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a piece of writing that can be examined. For example, "The instructions for using the device can be read in the manual."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It can be read here.

The Economist

Mark Thompson's Blog can be read here.

Independent

The rule can be read here.

The New York Times

A full breakdown can be read here.

The New York Times

He cares that it can be read.

The New Yorker

Books and periodicals can be read too.

The Economist

Mr. Hoffman's responses can be read here.

The New York Times

"It can be read in different ways.

The New York Times

The full obituary can be read here.

The New York Times

(The entire paper can be read below).

The New York Times

Part 2 can be read here.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be read", ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "The report can be read online" instead of simply stating "It can be read."

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on passive constructions like "can be read" as it can sometimes make your writing sound less direct and engaging. Consider rephrasing to use active voice where appropriate for a more impactful statement. For example, instead of "The document can be read by anyone", try "Anyone can read the document."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be read" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the possibility or capability of something being read. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase is commonly used in various contexts to describe the readability or accessibility of texts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

17%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be read" is a versatile and commonly used modal passive construction that indicates the possibility or capability of something being read and understood. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a wide range of contexts, from formal academic papers to neutral news articles. While it is most frequently found in "News & Media" sources, it also appears in academic and scientific texts. When using "can be read", ensure that the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity and consider rephrasing to active voice where appropriate. Alternatives include "is readable", "can be understood", and "is open to interpretation" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is readable

This alternative is a more concise adjective form, directly indicating the quality of being readable.

is capable of being read

This phrase is a more formal and verbose way of expressing the same concept, emphasizing the capability.

can be understood

This alternative shifts the focus from the act of reading to the act of understanding, implying comprehension.

is open to interpretation

This phrase highlights the possibility of multiple meanings or understandings.

is accessible

This alternative suggests that the content is available and easy to understand or obtain.

lends itself to reading

This implies the text is easy or enjoyable to read.

is decipherable

This alternative is used when something is difficult to read, but it is possible.

is available to read

This option emphasizes availability rather than inherent readability.

may be perused

This is a more formal option that means to examine carefully or at length.

is legible

This is more about the quality of handwriting than the content itself.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be read" to indicate that something is capable of being understood or examined. For instance, "The instructions "can be read" in the manual" or "The author's intentions "can be read" in their writing".

What is a synonym for "can be read"?

Alternatives to "can be read" include "is readable", "can be understood", or "is open to interpretation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "can be read" or "is readable"?

Both "can be read" and "is readable" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Can be read" focuses on the action or possibility of reading something, while "is readable" describes the quality of being easy or suitable to read. The better option depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Can "can be read" have multiple interpretations?

Yes, depending on the context. For instance, "The situation "can be read" in different ways" suggests multiple perspectives or interpretations are possible. Similarly, "is open to interpretation" conveys a similar meaning.