can be trusted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be trusted" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express confidence in someone's reliability or integrity. Example: "In a world full of misinformation, it's important to find sources that can be trusted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He can be trusted.

The New York Times - Arts

Only dogs can be trusted.

The New York Times - Books

Bronze can be trusted.

The New York Times - Arts

Today, no investment banker can be trusted.

The Economist

No one can be trusted.

The New Yorker

Whose advice can be trusted?

The New York Times

Not that the coaches can be trusted.

The New York Times - Sports

Pardew evidently thinks Zaha can be trusted.

The Guardian - Sport

"When I can be trusted by myself?

The New Yorker

And which book can be trusted?

The New York Times - Books

Who can be trusted with nuclear weapons?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “can be trusted” when you want to emphasize the passive aspect of trust, that is, the entity has earned the trust of others through consistent and reliable behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "can be trusted" without providing supporting evidence or a clear rationale. Unsubstantiated claims of trustworthiness can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be trusted" functions as a passive modal verb phrase, indicating the capacity or ability of someone or something to be relied upon or believed. As Ludwig AI shows, it often appears in contexts where credibility or reliability is being assessed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be trusted" is a versatile and frequently used expression that conveys reliability and integrity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a passive modal verb phrase, typically found in news, media, and general informational contexts. While grammatically straightforward, the effectiveness of "can be trusted" relies on providing clear justifications for the implied trust. By avoiding unsubstantiated claims and offering supporting evidence, writers can leverage this phrase to enhance credibility and build confidence. Alternative phrases such as "is reliable" or "is trustworthy" offer nuanced options for expressing similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is trustworthy

Highlights the quality of deserving trust and confidence.

is reliable

Emphasizes dependability and consistency in performance or behavior.

is dependable

Focuses on the ability to be relied upon in various situations.

is safe to rely on

Directly states that reliance is secure and without risk.

is credible

Suggests believability and accuracy in information or actions.

is reputable

Implies a good standing and a history of integrity.

is faithful

Highlights loyalty and unwavering commitment.

is above suspicion

Indicates a lack of any reason for doubt or mistrust.

is honorable

Emphasizes integrity and ethical conduct.

is beyond reproach

Conveys an image of impeccable character and behavior.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be trusted" to describe someone or something reliable. For example, "This source "can be trusted" because it's verified" or "He "can be trusted" with sensitive information".

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

Alternatives include "is reliable", "is dependable", or "is trustworthy", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "can be trusted" or "could be trusted"?

"Can be trusted" generally refers to a present or ongoing state of trustworthiness. "Could be trusted" implies a potential or past trustworthiness that may no longer be applicable.

What's the difference between "can be trusted" and "is trusted"?

"Can be trusted" suggests the inherent qualities or potential for trust, while "is trusted" indicates that trust is actively given or recognized by others. For example, "This method "can be trusted" for its accuracy," versus "This person "is trusted" by the community".