can be relevant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be relevant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the applicability or importance of a particular idea, fact, or piece of information in a given context. Example: "In the context of climate change, historical data can be relevant for understanding long-term trends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The outcomes of national elections can be relevant but the parameters for that relevance are narrowing to within fairly slim margins.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Location can be relevant to its suitability".

The Guardian

I think it must happen – it's the only way we as academics can be relevant.

The Guardian

Mr. Obama's advisers argue that "there are multiple aspects to experience, each of which can be relevant".

The New York Times

And, sure, comparisons between artists can be relevant, if the artists in question are working in comparable contexts.

The New Yorker

This suggests that even in a population as poor as Haiti's, consumer technology can be relevant to people's needs.

The Guardian

"I don't think any institution can be relevant today unless it's open," said Stephen Danzansky, the library's chief executive.

The New York Times

I try to understand why they matter and if they can be relevant as I write this now.

The New Yorker

As a legal matter, budget concerns can be relevant to staffing decisions in extreme circumstances.

The New York Times

He diagnoses and treats inherited diseases and does research that can be relevant to humans as well as animals.

The New York Times

"I don't know if everybody needs $100 underwear, but for certain occasions, it can be relevant," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be relevant", clearly define the context to which something is relevant to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "This information can be relevant", specify "This information can be relevant to understanding the causes of the economic crisis."

Common error

Avoid using "can be relevant" as a generic filler. If you find yourself using the phrase frequently, consider whether the relevance is already implied or if you can specify the relevance more directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be relevant" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject by describing its potential or conditional relevance. Ludwig shows examples across diverse fields, affirming its widespread applicability. This phrase suggests that something has the potential to be important or applicable, depending on the specific context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be relevant" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile expression used to indicate the potential applicability or importance of something within a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various domains, including news, science, and general discourse. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to provide explicit context when using this phrase. While synonyms like "can be applicable" and "can be pertinent" offer similar meanings, the specific nuance may vary. Avoiding overuse and providing clear context are essential best practices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be applicable

Emphasizes the suitability of something in a particular situation; focuses on whether something fits or applies.

can be pertinent

Highlights the direct relevance and importance of something to a specific matter.

can be appropriate

Suggests that something is suitable or fitting for a particular purpose or situation.

can be useful

Focuses on the utility or helpfulness of something in achieving a particular goal.

can be significant

Highlights the importance or impact of something.

can be consequential

Suggests that something has important results or effects.

can be material

Indicates that something is important or essential to a decision or outcome.

can be germane

Stresses the close relationship and relevance of something to the matter at hand.

may have bearing on

Implies that something might influence or affect a particular situation or outcome.

could play a role in

Suggests that something could be a factor in influencing an outcome or situation.

FAQs

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

Use "can be relevant" to indicate that something is applicable or important in a particular context. For example, "Historical data "can be relevant" when studying long-term trends."

What are some alternatives to "can be relevant"?

You can use alternatives like "can be applicable", "can be pertinent", or "can be significant" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "can be relevant" and "is relevant"?

"Can be relevant" suggests a potential or conditional relevance, while "is relevant" indicates a definite and present relevance. Use "can be relevant" when the relevance depends on the specific context or situation.

When is it best to avoid using "can be relevant"?

Avoid using "can be relevant" when the relevance is already obvious or implied. In such cases, a more direct statement of relevance is preferable. For example, if it is clear that data is related, state "The data is relevant" instead of "The data "can be relevant"".