can escape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can escape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the possibility of someone or something getting away from a situation or constraint. Example: "In a well-designed maze, the player can escape if they find the right path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They can escape".

The New York Times

Now you can escape.

The New York Times

You can escape.

The New York Times

Nobody can escape our wrath this time.

The New Yorker

You can escape some of the drudgery".

Independent

"There is no way you can escape".

The New York Times - Science

No one can escape death.

The New Yorker

Before they can escape, Lena is captured.

The Guardian

I can escape to the bar.

The New York Times

What escapes categorization can escape detection altogether.

The New Yorker

But officials can escape only so often.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about abstract concepts, "can escape" suggests overcoming limitations or challenges. For instance, "One can escape the confines of traditional thinking through creativity."

Common error

Avoid using "can escape" when a more definitive term is needed. "Can escape" implies a possibility, not a certainty. If something will inevitably be avoided, use a stronger verb like 'will avoid' or 'is guaranteed to evade'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can escape" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing possibility or ability to avoid something. Ludwig examples showcase usage across diverse contexts, from physical escapes to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

23%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can escape" is a versatile phrase used to express the possibility or ability to avoid something. Ludwig's analysis reveals it's grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and wiki articles. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the context to ensure the appropriate level of formality. The phrase is best used to indicate a potential for avoidance, not a guaranteed outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is able to evade

This alternative suggests a successful avoidance of something, often with skill or cunning.

manages to elude

Focuses on the successful act of escaping, often from pursuit.

is capable of fleeing

This alternative focuses on the act of running away from danger or confinement.

succeeds in avoiding

Highlights the accomplishment of preventing something from happening.

can get away

This option is more casual and implies avoiding punishment or negative consequences.

finds a way out

This suggests resourcefulness in discovering an escape route.

is in a position to break free

Emphasizes the potential or opportunity to become liberated.

is permitted to leave

This implies that permission has been granted to escape.

has the ability to dodge

Implies a quick and skillful movement to avoid something.

has the option to flee

This highlights that there is an available choice to escape.

FAQs

How can I use "can escape" in a sentence?

The phrase "can escape" indicates the possibility of avoiding something. For example, "With careful planning, you "can escape" the worst of the traffic."

What can I say instead of "can escape"?

Alternatives to "can escape" include "is able to evade", "is capable of fleeing", or "can get away", depending on the context.

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

"Can escape" suggests a present or general possibility, while "could escape" implies a past or conditional possibility. For example, "With the right tools, one "can escape"." vs. "If they had acted sooner, they "could escape"."

What's the difference between "can escape" and "is able to escape"?

The phrases "can escape" and "is able to escape" are largely interchangeable, both expressing the ability to avoid something. "Can escape" is generally more concise, while "is able to escape" can sometimes add emphasis to the ability.