can be refused

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be refused" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate that something is subject to rejection or denial. Example: "The application can be refused if it does not meet the necessary criteria."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Over that period, they can be refused service by travel agents, airlines, hotels and scenic sites.

Independent

Other details, such as specific laboratory locations, can be refused under FOI exemptions.

The Guardian

The reply from one official was swift: "Madame, this is not a position that can be refused".

The New York Times

These "subject access requests" can be refused on the ground that information was obtained for journalistic reasons.

The Guardian

Which may actually please Arsenal, a club that seem to specialise in making offers that can be refused.

The Guardian - Sport

But Mr Mylrea told the review that the blog was strictly "an editorial product", insisting: "I can make stylistic suggestions but they can be refused".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

I think the key to their success was that they both had the common touch, they had very humble beginnings and were never arrogant which many writers can be, refusing to cut or change lines - of course, the beauty of their writing was that very little had to be changed.

The Guardian - Money

Those who leave can also be refused a Christian burial, unless they "give some sign of repentance," it read.

The New York Times

However, staff may request that their break coincides with religious obligations to pray at certain times and this can only be refused if it conflicts unreasonably with business needs.

The Guardian - Money

Those participants with visual impairment due to cataract regarded the process of obtaining permits and getting through military checkpoints (where access can still be refused with or without a permit), as a barrier.

Plosone

Requests can be still be refused on 'business grounds' but reasons will have to be given and could be challenged by an employee.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be refused", ensure the context clearly indicates who has the authority to refuse and the grounds for refusal. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be refused" without specifying the conditions or criteria for refusal. Saying "Applications can be refused" is less helpful than "Applications can be refused if they do not meet the eligibility criteria".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be refused" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility of denial or rejection. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be refused" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate the possibility of denial or rejection under specific conditions. As Ludwig AI indicates, the expression is widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and general information. While it maintains a neutral register, specifying the conditions for refusal is crucial for clarity. Alternatives such as "may be denied" or "is subject to rejection" can be used depending on the desired tone. When using this phrase, be precise about the criteria for refusal to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be denied

Uses a different modal verb ('may' instead of 'can') and a synonym for 'refused'.

is subject to rejection

Rephrases the idea using 'subject to' and the noun form of 'reject'.

is liable to be rejected

Emphasizes the likelihood of rejection with 'liable to be'.

is open to denial

Highlights the possibility of denial.

could be turned down

Uses a phrasal verb ('turn down') for a more informal tone.

might be declined

Employs 'might' for a slightly less assertive tone and uses 'declined' as a synonym.

is not guaranteed acceptance

Focuses on the lack of guarantee of acceptance, implying potential refusal.

acceptance is not assured

Similar to the previous one, but uses a different structure to emphasize the uncertainty of acceptance.

does not ensure approval

Shifts the focus to the absence of guaranteed approval.

is not always granted

Highlights that the granting of something is not automatic and can be withheld.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "can be refused"?

The phrase "can be refused" is appropriately used when outlining conditions under which something may be denied or rejected. For instance, "Entry "can be refused" if visitors do not adhere to the dress code".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "can be refused"?

Alternatives to "can be refused" include "may be denied", "is subject to rejection", or "could be turned down", depending on the desired level of formality and context.

Is "can be refused" grammatically correct?

Yes, "can be refused" is grammatically correct. It uses the modal verb "can" to indicate possibility and the passive voice ("be refused") to show that something is being acted upon.

How does the meaning of "can be refused" differ from "will be refused"?

"Can be refused" implies a possibility of refusal under certain conditions, whereas "will be refused" suggests a higher degree of certainty and a more definite outcome. For example, "Entry "can be refused" for those without tickets", versus "Entry will be refused to anyone attempting to bring prohibited items".