can be returned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'can be returned' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase when referring to something that can be returned, or to describe a situation in which something can be taken back. For example, "Any items that do not meet the customer's expectations can be returned for a full refund."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Slams can be returned.

The New York Times

Phones can be returned.

The Guardian - Tech

These can be returned, or not.

The New York Times

A temporary array that can be returned by const reference.

Stanford University

Unrestricted ReCAP items can be returned to any Princeton library.

Princeton University

BorrowDirect materials can be returned to any Harvard library.

Harvard University

Those released can be returned to Haiti when deportations resume.

The New York Times

Everything can be found, and everything can be returned.

The New Yorker

The bicycles can be returned to any bike-share stand.

The New York Times

But one very important piece can be returned.

The Guardian - Arts

"And there are several billion that can be returned.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing return policies, clearly state the conditions under which items "can be returned", such as timeframes or acceptable condition.

Common error

Avoid vague statements like "all items can be returned" without specifying potential restrictions or exceptions. Always provide detailed return conditions to prevent customer confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be returned" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility or permissibility of something being sent back or reverted. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

19%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be returned" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression across diverse fields. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and general usability. It indicates the possibility of something being sent back or reverted, often with specific conditions attached. Usage patterns reveal prevalence in news, academic, and general contexts. When using "can be returned", ensure clarity regarding return conditions to avoid misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be taken back

A more informal phrasing of the original query, emphasizing the act of reclaiming something.

can be given back

Suggests returning something to its owner or original source, often used in simple contexts.

is eligible for return

Specifies that something meets the criteria to be sent back, often in a commercial context.

may be sent back

Indicates a possibility or permission to return something, with a slightly more formal tone.

can be refunded

Focuses specifically on monetary returns, differing from the broader return of an item or state.

can be reverted

Emphasizes the action of reversing to a previous condition or state, rather than a physical return.

can be exchanged

Highlights the option to swap something for an equivalent item, rather than a full return.

can be restored

Highlights the process of bringing something back to its original state, implying repair or recovery.

can be remitted

Focuses on sending money or a payment back, differing slightly from the broader concept of returning an object.

can be retrieved

Focuses on the ability to recover something that was lost or taken away.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "can be returned"?

When something "can be returned", it means that it is possible to send it back to the original seller or provider, often for a refund, exchange, or repair, subject to specific conditions.

What are some synonyms for "can be returned"?

Some synonyms for "can be returned" include "can be refunded", "is eligible for return", or "may be sent back", depending on the specific context.

Under what circumstances "can be returned" is used in a sentence?

The phrase "can be returned" is typically used to describe the possibility of returning a product, document, or even a person to its original state or location. For example, "Defective items "can be returned" within 30 days of purchase."

Is it always possible for something that "can be returned" to actually be returned?

No, just because something "can be returned" doesn't guarantee it will be accepted. The actual return often depends on meeting specific criteria set by the seller or organization, such as the item's condition, timeframe, or proof of purchase.