can be regarded

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be regarded" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means that something has the potential to be considered or seen in a certain way. Example: The new law can be regarded as a significant step towards protecting the environment.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This region can be regarded as bulk.

Polymer

The agreement can be regarded as acceptable.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms

Therefore, Africanized bees can be regarded as superior pollinators.

Columbia University

But magazines can be regarded as systems for processing fiction.

The New Yorker

He can be regarded as a "mini Mo".

The Guardian - Sport

The tethered chains can be regarded as 'isolated polymer chains'.

Polymer

Thus, they can be regarded as keystone species.

Nature

Therefore, flowing groundwater can be regarded as an environmental agent.

Journal of Hydrology

Many structural components can be regarded as waveguides.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Most of these materials can be regarded as brittle.

Acta Materialia

It can be regarded as England's first written constitution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be regarded" to introduce an interpretation or perspective, especially when presenting an objective analysis of a situation or concept. This phrasing allows you to present a viewpoint without asserting it as an absolute truth.

Common error

Avoid using "can be regarded" excessively in your writing. Over-reliance on passive constructions can make your writing seem weak or vague. Vary your sentence structure by using active voice where appropriate to make your statements more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be regarded" functions as a modal passive construction, introducing an interpretation or perspective that is presented as one possibility among others. It softens the assertion, suggesting a viewpoint rather than a definitive fact. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be regarded" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a possible interpretation or perspective. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. Its frequency across various sources, particularly in science, news, and academia, highlights its relevance in objective analysis and thoughtful discussion. When writing, use the phrase "can be regarded" to signal that you're offering one potential viewpoint, and be mindful of overusing passive voice. Alternative phrasings like "may be considered" or "might be viewed as" offer similar nuances. This adaptability makes it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be considered

Replaces "regarded" with "considered", offering a slightly more formal tone. The meaning is almost identical.

can be seen as

Replaces "regarded" with "seen", providing a more straightforward and common alternative.

might be viewed as

Uses "viewed as" instead of "regarded", suggesting a perspective or opinion is being offered.

could be deemed

Employs "deemed" which implies a judgement or assessment has been made. It's slightly more formal.

can be characterized as

Focuses on defining or describing something using specific characteristics. It highlights a definition.

is often understood as

Highlights the common understanding or interpretation of something, adding a layer of generality.

is sometimes interpreted as

Focuses on the act of interpreting something, suggesting a degree of subjectivity.

is capable of being perceived as

A more verbose and formal alternative, emphasizing the potential for a particular perception.

lends itself to being seen as

Suggests that something naturally or easily allows for a specific interpretation.

is susceptible to being viewed as

Highlights the vulnerability or likelihood of something being interpreted in a specific way, often negatively.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be regarded" is used to present a perspective or interpretation that is not necessarily a definitive statement of fact. For example, "This policy "can be regarded" as a compromise between different viewpoints."

What are some alternatives to "can be regarded"?

Some alternatives include "may be considered", "might be viewed as", or "could be deemed". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

"Can be regarded" suggests a possibility or potential interpretation, while "is regarded" implies a more widely accepted or established view. Choose the phrasing that accurately reflects the level of consensus or certainty you want to convey.

What does "can be regarded as" mean?

It means that something has the potential to be considered or viewed in a certain way. It implies that this view is one possible interpretation, but not necessarily the only or definitive one.