can be sensed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be sensed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that can be perceived through the senses. For example, "The sweet smell of freshly-baked bread can be sensed from the kitchen."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"This can be sensed very quickly.

The New York Times - Arts

The shift can be sensed in American restaurants.

The New York Times

Speech sounds consist of small variations in air pressure that can be sensed by the ear.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Takebayashi said, "I like that our presence can be sensed from outside, but only ambiguously".

The New York Times

A seething resentment can be sensed underneath the wary cool with which Fetchit negotiates with Fox.

The New York Times

Like the Ring, its possession can be sensed by others who have possessed it.

The New Yorker

This is perhaps where the Eastern quality of the design can be sensed.

The New York Times - Arts

But nearby, the first whiffs of coffee can be sensed round the station.

The Guardian

The presence of another person can be sensed, even when not directly perceived.

The New Yorker

That still is one of the museum's weaknesses as well, but now it can be sensed amid growing strengths.

The New York Times - Arts

The feel-good atmosphere, immune from the competitive abrasiveness that can be sensed in other important fairs, is striking.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like feelings or atmosphere, use "can be sensed" to convey a subtle yet perceptible quality. For instance, "A change in the company's direction can be sensed in recent policy shifts."

Common error

Avoid using "can be sensed" in highly technical or scientific writing where more precise terms like "can be detected" or "can be measured" would be more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "The radiation can be sensed by the device", say "The radiation can be detected by the device".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be sensed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that something is capable of being perceived through one or more of the senses. Ludwig provides numerous examples across various contexts showcasing its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

51%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be sensed" is a grammatically sound and versatile passive verb phrase indicating the ability to perceive something through the senses. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various domains. It's most frequently encountered in news, media, and scientific contexts. While generally suitable for neutral registers, precision in word choice is crucial, especially in technical writing. Remember to use alternatives like "is detectable" or "can be measured" where appropriate, and avoid overuse in overly technical contexts. "Can be sensed" effectively communicates perceptibility, whether physical or abstract, making it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be perceived

A more formal way of saying "can be sensed", using 'perceived' instead of 'sensed'.

is capable of being sensed

A more verbose and formal way of expressing the same idea, emphasizing capability.

is perceptible

Replaces the verb 'sensed' with 'perceptible', focusing on the ability to be perceived.

is detectable

Emphasizes the ability to be detected or discovered, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

can be detected by

Specifies the means by which something can be detected, adding a layer of detail.

is discernible

Highlights the ability to be distinguished or recognized, implying a clearer perception.

is capable of detection

Focuses on the inherent capability of detection, often used in technical contexts.

is noticeable

Focuses on the ease with which something can be noticed or observed.

is palpable

Suggests that something is so intense it feels as if it can be physically touched or felt.

can be observed

Implies a more active observation or monitoring, rather than passive sensing.

FAQs

How to use "can be sensed" in a sentence?

"Can be sensed" indicates something is perceptible through the senses. For example, "The tension in the room "can be felt"", meaning the tension is palpable or noticeable.

What can I say instead of "can be sensed"?

Alternatives include "is perceptible", "is detectable", or "is noticeable", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "can be sensed"?

Yes, "can be sensed" is grammatically correct and widely used. Ludwig AI confirms its validity with numerous examples from reliable sources.

What's the difference between "can be sensed" and "can be felt"?

"Can be sensed" is broader, encompassing all senses. "Can be felt" specifically refers to tactile sensation or a strong emotional feeling. Something "can be sensed" through sight, sound, smell, taste, or touch, while something "can be felt" through touch or emotion.