can be spread

USAGE SUMMARY

'can be spread' is a perfectly valid phrase that can be used in written English.
You can use it when you mean that something can be communicated, distributed, or disseminated. For example, "The news of his victory can be spread among the entire town."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In fact, those diseases can be spread this way.

The New York Times - Health

Without treatment, though, the disease can be spread.

The New York Times - Health

West Nile virus can be spread through mosquito bites.

The New York Times

It can be spread through water, food or between people.

The Guardian

Essential running costs can be spread over many taxpayers.

The Economist

Others say that the blame can be spread wider.

The New York Times

Large deductions can be spread over six years, or donations can be made in increments so that tax deductions can be spread over many more years.

The New York Times

Infrastructures can be spread on a broad continuum, ranging from generic to highly specialised.

The Guardian - Tech

Hepatitis A can be spread by people who do not wash their hands.

The New York Times

Cholera, typhoid, dysentery and other diseases can be spread through untreated human waste.

The Guardian

Besides, many viral infections can be spread to others even before symptoms develop.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about the spread of diseases or information, consider using synonyms like "transmitted", "disseminated", or "propagated" for a more nuanced tone. For example, use "can be transmitted" when discussing diseases and "can be disseminated" when discussing information.

Common error

While "can be spread" is grammatically correct, overuse of the passive voice can make writing sound weak. Actively rephrase sentences where possible to make the subject clear. Instead of "The rumor can be spread easily", consider "People can spread the rumor easily".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be spread" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating the potential for something to be distributed or disseminated. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a valid and commonly used expression. Ludwig examples show usage in various contexts, from disease transmission to the spread of information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

28%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be spread" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the potential for dissemination or propagation across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. Appearing frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. While effective, writers should be mindful of potential overuse of the passive voice and consider active alternatives for clarity and impact. Related phrases such as "can be transmitted" or "can be disseminated" offer nuanced options for specific contexts. Using varied vocabulary and sentence structure will improve writing impact and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be transmitted

Focuses specifically on the transfer or conveyance of something, often disease or information.

can be disseminated

Implies a wider distribution, often of information or knowledge, to a broader audience.

can be propagated

Suggests the act of multiplying or reproducing, often used in the context of plants or ideas.

can be circulated

Emphasizes the movement of something within a system or group.

can be diffused

Highlights the process of something becoming more widely distributed or dispersed.

can be conveyed

Focuses on the act of communicating or transferring something from one place or person to another.

can be communicated

Emphasizes the sharing or exchange of information or ideas.

can be passed on

Implies a transfer from one person or thing to another, often in a sequential manner.

can be extended

Suggests the expansion or widening of something's reach or scope.

can be broadened

Emphasizes the act of making something wider or more inclusive.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be spread" to describe how something, like a disease or information, is disseminated. For example, "The virus "can be spread" through the air" or "Misinformation "can be spread" quickly online".

What are some alternatives to "can be spread"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "can be transmitted", "can be disseminated", or "can be propagated" as alternatives to ""can be spread"".

Is it better to use "can be spread" or "is spread"?

The choice between "can be spread" and "is spread" depends on the context. "Can be spread" indicates a possibility or potential, while "is spread" indicates a current action or state. For example, "The disease "can be spread" if precautions are not taken" versus "The disease "is spread" through contaminated water".

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

When something ""can be spread"", it means it has the ability or potential to be distributed, transmitted, or disseminated to others. This is commonly used in the context of diseases, information, or ideas.