can get stuck

USAGE SUMMARY

"can get stuck" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you mean to express that something is stuck, that is, it's unable to move due to some kind of physical obstacle or impediment. For example: "The door can get stuck if you don't turn the handle correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pizza can get stuck.

The New York Times

"Scouts can get stuck on a guy.

The New York Times - Sports

Any one of us can get stuck.

The New York Times - Science

But owners who choose growth can get stuck.

The New York Times

But Hempstead Wright has some catching up to do before he can get stuck into shooting.

Independent

But when it doesn't, people choke or food can get stuck or even come back up.

The New York Times

"He can weave a web, and you can get stuck in it".

The New York Times

Newcomers, meanwhile, can get stuck in from the very beginning via Sky's box-sets collection.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The fibers will not soften when cooked, and they can get stuck in your throat.

The New York Times - Health

Blue can get stuck at the post-shower, towel-wearing stage of the day.

The New Yorker

He wants to look at "the reasons people can get stuck, and become isolated".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can get stuck", consider the specific context to choose the most accurate and vivid language. For example, instead of saying "ideas can get stuck", consider alternatives like "ideas can stagnate" or "ideas can be mired" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Common error

While "can get stuck" is versatile, it can sound informal in academic or professional contexts. Opt for more precise alternatives like "become impeded", "be immobilized", or "encounter limitations" to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can get stuck" functions as a modal verb construction expressing possibility and a linking verb connecting the subject to a state of being. Ludwig's examples show it describing potential states of being immobile or impeded.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can get stuck" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that indicates the possibility of becoming immobile or trapped. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and functions to warn, inform, or explain. While suitable for general use, more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or professional writing. Ludwig's examples highlight its application across diverse contexts, ranging from technical issues to personal challenges. Remember to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey when selecting among alternatives like "may become trapped" or "might be impeded".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may become trapped

Focuses on the possibility of being physically confined or obstructed.

might be impeded

Highlights the aspect of being hindered or slowed down in progress.

could be caught

Emphasizes the potential for being ensnared or trapped in a situation.

may find itself blocked

Shifts the focus to the experience of encountering an obstacle.

can be immobilized

Stresses the state of being unable to move or function.

might be gridlocked

Suggests a situation of complete blockage or standstill.

could become lodged

Highlights the idea of being firmly fixed or embedded.

might run aground

Focuses on the specific scenario of a ship or idea becoming stuck.

can be mired

Emphasizes the condition of being stuck in a difficult or unpleasant situation.

may stagnate

Shifts the focus to the lack of progress or development.

FAQs

How can I use "can get stuck" in a sentence?

The phrase "can get stuck" indicates the possibility of being physically or metaphorically unable to move or progress. For example, "A data packet "can get stuck" in the network", or "Without an optimistic approach, we "can get stuck"".

What are some alternatives to "can get stuck"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "can get stuck" include "may become trapped", "might be impeded", or "could be caught". Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

Is it correct to say "can be stuck" instead of "can get stuck"?

While "can be stuck" is grammatically correct, it conveys a state of being stuck. "Can get stuck" suggests a process of becoming stuck. The better choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the process or the state.

What's the difference between "can get stuck" and "can get trapped"?

Both phrases imply a lack of movement, but "can get trapped" suggests a more forceful or confining situation. Something that "can get stuck" might simply be wedged, while something that "can get trapped" is likely surrounded or confined.