can defend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can defend" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to protect or support a position, argument, or individual in a particular context. Example: "In a debate, the candidate must demonstrate that they can defend their policies against criticism."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I can defend.

The New York Times - Sports

We can defend ourselves".

The New York Times

"He can defend.

The New York Times

"Society can defend itself".

The Economist

Turiaf can defend the paint.

The New York Times - Sports

But he can defend.

The Guardian - Sport

I can defend myself".

The Guardian

We have confidence we can defend it".

Independent

Anyway, they can defend themselves.

The New Yorker

They can defend little kids.

The New York Times - Sports

They can defend big kids.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can defend", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being defended (e.g., a position, a person, a country). Providing specific details strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "can defend" without specifying what the subject is capable of defending. A vague statement lacks persuasive power. Instead of saying "They can defend", specify: "They can defend their territory".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can defend" functions primarily as a modal verb phrase, indicating the ability or capacity to protect or support something. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can defend" is a versatile and frequently used modal verb phrase that expresses the ability or capacity to protect or support something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. Analysis of usage patterns reveals its prevalence in news, scientific, and formal/business writing. When employing "can defend", clarity is key; specifying the object of defense strengthens the statement's impact. Alternatives like "is able to protect" or "is capable of defending" offer nuanced ways to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is able to protect

Replaces the modal verb "can" with "is able to", emphasizing capability.

is capable of defending

Emphasizes the capacity or inherent ability to defend.

has the ability to protect

Highlights the possession of the necessary skills or resources for defense.

is in a position to safeguard

Focuses on having the right circumstances or authority to ensure safety.

is prepared to shield

Emphasizes readiness and willingness to offer protection.

is equipped to guard

Highlights having the necessary tools or training for defensive action.

is authorized to uphold

Focuses on having the official permission or right to defend a principle or law.

is entitled to maintain

Emphasizes the legal or moral right to defend a position or belief.

has what it takes to secure

Highlights possession of the characteristics or skills needed to protect.

is strong enough to preserve

Emphasizes the physical or mental strength required for effective defense.

FAQs

How to use "can defend" in a sentence?

Use "can defend" to indicate an ability to protect or support something. For example, "The lawyer believes she "can defend" her client effectively".

What can I say instead of "can defend"?

Alternatives include "is able to protect", "is capable of defending", or "has the ability to protect", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "can defend" or "could defend"?

"Can defend" indicates a present ability or possibility, while "could defend" suggests a past ability or a conditional possibility. The choice depends on the context and the time frame you're referencing.

What's the difference between "can defend" and "must defend"?

"Can defend" implies an ability or capability to protect, whereas "must defend" suggests an obligation or necessity to do so. The former refers to potential, the latter to duty.