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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
can likely be
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The part of the sentence 'can likely be' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something has a strong chance of happening or being true. For example: "The new movie can likely be a success given its star-studded cast."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
These accounts can likely be attributed to other Shoshone women who shared similar experiences as Sacagawea.
Encyclopedias
The technique, he wrote in an email, can "likely be adapted to human brains within five years".
News & Media
On the whole, the three match-ups can likely be called an overall draw, with the first debate propelling what the press is now calling "Mittmentum".
News & Media
Thus, narrow implants can likely be used successfully.
This can likely be explained by two factors.
News & Media
Improved adaptive mutants can likely be generated by genetic exchange between lineages, thereby reducing clonal interference.
Science
These soundnails are effective and can likely be utilized to assist language comprehension and communication.
Thus, the Sn-filled CNFs can likely be used as a hydrogen storage material.
Science
This trend can likely be attributed to the higher weight fraction of chitosan.
Science
A further increase of the TS concentration can likely be realized by fed-batch fermentation.
Science
Hence, large asperities can likely be formed in the intermediate zone of the interplate megathrusts.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Avoid overuse in a single piece of writing, consider substituting with alternatives like "is likely to be" or "may well be" for variety.
Common error
Be cautious not to use "can likely be" when expressing absolute certainty. This phrase implies a degree of uncertainty, so if you are certain, use stronger language such as "will be" or "is definitely".
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "can likely be" functions as an epistemic modal, expressing a judgment about the probability or likelihood of a particular state or event. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. It suggests that something is highly probable, though not certain.
Frequent in
Science
49%
News & Media
34%
Formal & Business
17%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "can likely be" is a versatile phrase used to express a strong possibility or reasonable expectation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English, finding numerous examples across scientific, news, and business domains. While it suggests a high degree of probability, it stops short of asserting absolute certainty. Consider alternatives like "is likely to be" or "may well be" for stylistic variation, and avoid using it when expressing absolute certainty. Be sure to tailor your choice to the intended audience and context, as "can likely be" generally fits well in both neutral and formal settings.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
is likely to be
Uses a different structure to express probability, replacing "can" with "is" and adding "to be".
will probably be
Replaces "can likely" with "will probably", suggesting a future expectation rather than a present possibility.
is probably going to be
Emphasizes the future aspect and uses a more colloquial tone with "going to be".
may well be
Substitutes "can likely" with "may well", which conveys a similar level of probability but with a slightly more formal tone.
could easily be
Indicates that something is possible and not difficult to achieve.
is highly probable
Replaces the modal verb construction with an adjective phrase, emphasizing the high probability.
is expected to be
Suggests that something is anticipated or predicted to occur.
is almost certainly
Conveys a very high degree of confidence, suggesting near certainty.
is quite possibly
Indicates that something is fairly likely but doesn't express as much confidence as "can likely be".
might reasonably be
Suggests a possibility that is supported by reason or evidence.
FAQs
How can I use "can likely be" in a sentence?
The phrase "can likely be" expresses a strong possibility. For example, "The project "can likely be" completed by next month if we maintain our current pace".
What are some alternatives to "can likely be"?
Alternatives include phrases like "is likely to be", "will probably be", or "may well be", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.
Is "can likely be" formal or informal?
"Can likely be" is suitable for both formal and semi-formal contexts. It strikes a balance between expressing possibility and maintaining a professional tone.
What's the difference between "can likely be" and "will be"?
"Can likely be" indicates a strong possibility, whereas "will be" expresses certainty. Use ""can likely be"" when there is some degree of uncertainty, and "will be" when the outcome is assured.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested