can be salvaged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be salvaged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of saving or recovering something that is damaged or in a poor state. Example: "Despite the setbacks, the project can be salvaged with some adjustments to the plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Still, some scientists remain hopeful that something can be salvaged.

The New York Times

We've been filling skips, nothing can be salvaged.

The Guardian

Assuming, of course, the future can be salvaged at all.

The Guardian - Business

What more can be salvaged in Waco's ashes?

The New York Times

It's likely that metalwork and stonework can be salvaged.

The Guardian - Arts

Late regrowth of the primary is rare, almost invariably endoluminal and, hence, can be salvaged.

Clinical Oncology

That means, in final conference bills, corporate donor earmarks can be salvaged by grateful senators.

The New York Times

Palestinian and Israeli envoys are again in Washington to see what can be salvaged.

The Economist

It's hope that their Israel can be salvaged and a two-state peace achieved.

The New York Times

We sincerely hope something can be salvaged and will play whatever part we can to help.

The Guardian

Some 30 canvases had to stay behind, but he hopes they can be salvaged.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be salvaged", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being saved or recovered. Provide specific details about the object or situation and the potential methods for salvage.

Common error

While "can be salvaged" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make writing sound weak. Consider rephrasing to use active voice for a more direct and impactful statement. For example, instead of "The project can be salvaged with new funding", try "New funding can salvage the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be salvaged" functions as a passive construction, indicating the possibility of something being rescued or recovered. It suggests a potential for positive intervention in a negative situation. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is usable and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be salvaged" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that expresses the potential for rescue or recovery. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific domains. When using the phrase, clarity is key; make sure to clearly indicate what you are trying to save and how. While versatile, be aware of the potential for passive voice overuse and consider active voice alternatives for a stronger impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be rescued

Focuses on the act of saving something from a dangerous or detrimental situation.

can be recovered

Emphasizes regaining something lost or restoring something to its original condition.

can be saved

General term indicating that something can be protected from harm or loss.

can be restored

Highlights the act of returning something to a former state or condition.

can be reclaimed

Suggests the possibility of retrieving something that was previously lost or abandoned.

can be retrieved

Highlights the act of getting something back after it has been lost or misplaced.

can be redeemed

Implies that something can be saved from a negative situation or state.

can be preserved

Focuses on maintaining something in its original state and preventing it from deteriorating.

can be repaired

Focuses on fixing damage or defects to make something functional again.

can be conserved

Emphasizes the careful use and protection of resources to ensure their availability for the future.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be salvaged" to describe a situation where something is in danger of being lost or ruined, but there is still a possibility of saving it. For example, "Despite the initial setbacks, the deal "can be salvaged" with some negotiation".

What are some alternatives to "can be salvaged"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "can be rescued", "can be recovered", or "can be restored" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "can be salvaged" or "can be saved"?

Both phrases are correct, but "can be salvaged" often implies a more complex or difficult situation where significant effort is needed to rescue something. "can be saved" is a more general term for preventing loss or harm.

In what contexts is "can be salvaged" most appropriate?

"Can be salvaged" is particularly fitting in scenarios involving damaged property, failing projects, or deteriorating relationships where intervention could lead to a positive outcome. It suggests that while the situation is dire, all hope is not lost.