can be said

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be said" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are saying something is likely to be true. For example, "It can be said that the new movie was a huge success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What can be said.

The New Yorker

That much can be said.

The Economist

"What else can be said?

The New York Times

Everything can be said.

The Guardian - Opinion

The same can be said for Zajac.

The New York Times - Sports

The same can be said for minorities.

The New York Times

The same can be said of patrons.

The New York Times

The same can be said about emails".

Independent

The same can be said of travel.

The New York Times - Travel

But this much can be said.

The New Yorker

What can be said in his mitigation?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be said", consider the context and ensure that the statement aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your writing.

Common error

Avoid overuse in formal academic or professional writing, as it can sometimes sound passive or vague. Consider stronger, more direct alternatives to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be said" functions as a hedging device, softening the assertion of a statement. It indicates a degree of certainty or general acceptance, without necessarily implying absolute proof. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be said" is a versatile phrase used to introduce statements that are generally accepted or likely to be true, without requiring absolute proof. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a hedge, softening assertions and acknowledging potential alternative perspectives. It is frequently found in news, scientific, and academic writing. While grammatically correct and widely used, writers should be mindful of overuse, especially in formal contexts, where more direct alternatives might be preferable. By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, writers can effectively incorporate "can be said" into their writing to convey a measured and balanced perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is fair to say

Implies impartiality and balance in making a statement, suggesting a considered judgment.

it could be argued that

Similar to "it is arguable that", but emphasizes the potential for an argument to be made.

one can conclude that

Signifies the drawing of a conclusion based on preceding information or evidence.

it is arguable that

This alternative presents a statement as debatable or open to interpretation, implying less certainty.

it may be stated that

Offers a formal way to introduce a statement or fact, often used in academic or official contexts.

it is plausible that

Suggests something is believable or likely based on available information, focusing on credibility.

it seems apparent that

Suggests something is clearly visible or obvious, emphasizing the ease of perception.

one might assert that

Introduces a statement with a degree of formality and emphasis on the act of declaring something.

it is understood that

Indicates a common or generally accepted understanding of a particular matter.

it is reasonable to assume

Highlights the logical basis for making an assumption, suggesting a well-founded inference.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be said" is used to introduce a statement that is generally accepted or believed to be true. For example, "It "can be said" that the economy is improving."

What are some alternatives to "can be said"?

Alternatives to "can be said" include phrases like "it is arguable that", "it is plausible that", or "it could be argued that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "can be said" or a more direct statement?

The choice depends on the context. "Can be said" is suitable when you want to introduce a generally accepted idea or avoid making an overly assertive claim. A direct statement is more appropriate when you have strong evidence and wish to express certainty.

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

When something ""can be said"", it means that there is a reasonable basis for making a particular statement or assertion, even if it's not definitively proven or universally agreed upon.