can be seen through

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be seen through" is correct and usable in written English.
This is an idiomatic phrase used to indicate that something is transparent and can be observed through a physical surface or barrier, or through figurative means, such as understanding and insight. For example: "His feelings of frustration and sadness could be seen through his eyes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both exhibitions can be seen through January 2012.

The New York Times

The exhibition can be seen through Jan . 28

The New York Times

The show can be seen through Aug. 16.

The New York Times

More can be seen through the window behind.

The Guardian - Arts

Sergio Gonzalez-Tornero's paintings can be seen through Jan . 31

The New York Times

Her show can be seen through March 21.

The New York Times - Arts

This can be seen through the various works reported in the literature.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

"His legacy and his influence can be seen through other generations of artists.

The Guardian - Arts

Reformist intellectuals, writers and politicians say the recent crackdown can be seen through two different lenses.

The New York Times - Arts

Some urinate in corners; others can be seen through half-doors taking showers.

The New York Times - Arts

The work of Paul Farinacci can be seen through tomorrow at the Court Square Branch.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be seen through" to describe literal transparency, like looking through glass, or metaphorical transparency, like understanding someone's motives.

Common error

Avoid using "can be seen through" when a more direct verb like 'demonstrates' or 'proves' would be clearer. Overusing it in abstract contexts can make your writing sound vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be seen through" functions as a passive construction indicating visibility or perceptibility. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use both literally, describing physical transparency, and figuratively, suggesting insight or understanding. The auxiliary verb 'can' indicates possibility or ability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be seen through" is a versatile expression used to denote both physical and metaphorical transparency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Usage ranges from describing literal visibility, such as objects seen through glass, to representing insight or understanding, like discerning someone's intentions through their actions. While the phrase enjoys broad applicability, careful consideration should be given to ensure clarity and precision, especially in formal contexts where a more direct verb might be preferable. The frequency of the expression is notably high in news and media, indicating its pervasive use in contemporary communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is visible through

Focuses on the attribute of being able to be seen, replacing the modal verb 'can' with a direct statement of visibility.

is perceptible through

Emphasizes the ability to be perceived, implying a sensory experience beyond just sight.

is discernible through

Highlights the quality of being distinguishable or recognizable when observed through something.

is apparent through

Indicates that something is clear or obvious when viewed through a particular medium or perspective.

is understood via

Shifts the focus from physical visibility to comprehension or understanding gained through something.

is revealed by

Highlights that something previously hidden is now made known or visible through something else.

is demonstrated by

Emphasizes that something is proven or shown through evidence or example.

is reflected in

Suggests that something is mirrored or shown as a consequence of something else.

is manifested in

Indicates that something abstract or intangible is made concrete or apparent through something tangible.

is conveyed by

Focuses on how something is communicated or expressed through a particular medium.

FAQs

How can I use "can be seen through" in a sentence?

You can use "can be seen through" to indicate literal visibility (e.g., "The park "can be seen through" the glass doors") or metaphorical insight (e.g., "His true intentions "can be seen through" his actions").

What are some alternatives to "can be seen through"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "is visible through", "is apparent through", or "is understood via". See the Related Phrases section for more options.

Is "can be seen through" formal or informal?

"Can be seen through" is generally considered neutral and "can be used" in both formal and informal contexts. However, consider whether a more precise verb would be more appropriate in formal writing.

How does "can be seen through" differ from "is visible through"?

"Is visible through" directly states that something is capable of being seen. "Can be seen through" implies the ability to see something due to transparency or some other enabling factor. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.