can it be done

USAGE SUMMARY

'can it be done' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking a question about something that is possible to do. For example: Can it be done by tomorrow?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Can it be done?

The Economist

How can it be done?

Harvard University

Can it be done without them?

The Economist

Can it be done in parallel?

Columbia University

But can it be done cost-effectively?

Cornell University

"Can it be done?" he asked rhetorically.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

It proves it can be done.

Independent

"If it can be done, it will be done".

The New York Times

So – its proof it can be done.

Unicef

Because it can be done".

The New York Times

So it can be done.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "can it be done", consider the context and tone. It can convey skepticism, optimism, or a simple request for information.

Common error

Avoid assuming "can it be done" implies immediate success. It only questions the possibility, not the ease or guarantee of the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can it be done" functions primarily as an interrogative clause, seeking to determine the feasibility or possibility of a particular action or task. It is commonly used to assess whether something is achievable, often in the face of challenges or uncertainties, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can it be done" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to inquire about the feasibility or possibility of an action. Ludwig confirms its validity. While it is suitable for various contexts, from news to academia, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "is it feasible". Remember that this expression questions possibility, not necessarily ease or guarantee. Its usage is widespread across various authoritative sources, indicating its acceptance and relevance in contemporary English. Consider context to gauge the best phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it possible

Emphasizes possibility over difficulty.

is it achievable

Highlights the potential for accomplishment.

is it feasible

Focuses on practicality and achievability.

is it viable

Stresses the sustainability and workability of an option.

is it workable

Highlights the practical application and functionality.

can this be achieved

Highlights action and result.

is it within reach

Focuses on accessibility and attainability.

is it accomplishable

Focuses on ability to finish and attain success.

is it within the realm of possibility

Emphasizes the theoretical chance of happening.

is it within the bounds of reality

Highlights the potential of the action based on real expectations.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "can it be done"?

You can use alternatives such as "is it feasible", "is it possible", or "is it achievable" depending on the nuance you want to convey. Each alternative slightly shifts the focus from mere possibility to practicality or potential success.

Is "can it be done" formal or informal?

The phrase "can it be done" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, you might opt for a more sophisticated phrasing like "is it feasible" or "is it viable".

What's the difference between "can it be done" and "is it possible"?

While both phrases inquire about possibility, "can it be done" often implies a consideration of effort, resources, or challenges. "Is it possible" is a more general inquiry about whether something is theoretically achievable. They are very similar, and in some contexts are interchangeable.

How to use "can it be done" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "Given the limited budget, "can it be done" within the proposed timeline?"