can obtain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can obtain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to acquire or get something, often in a formal or informative context. Example: "With the right resources, you can obtain the necessary permits for your project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Connecticut residents can obtain information at www.drought.state.ct.us.us

The New York Times

Anyone without coverage can obtain coverage immediately.

The New Yorker

an entity that can obtain a ticket.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students can obtain meals through SwipeShare discreetly.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I can obtain all my week's necessities within an hour.

The Guardian - Travel

Merchants can obtain both from Michael Skurnik Wines, Syosset, N.Y.

The New York Times

You can obtain an I.D. card for your pet.

The New Yorker

(Consumers can obtain their FICO ratings for $12.95 at www.myfico.com).

The New York Times

Analogously, we can obtain.

Advances in Difference Equations

one can obtain (226).

Boundary Value Problems

Similarly, we can obtain.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer alternatives like "can acquire" or "is able to acquire" for slightly different shades of meaning or formality.

Common error

While "can obtain" is grammatically correct, it may sound overly formal in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "can get" or "can come by" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can obtain" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating the possibility or ability to acquire or achieve something. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use across diverse contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness and versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

32%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can obtain" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express the possibility or ability to acquire something. As Ludwig AI affirms, it’s suitable for various contexts, particularly formal and informative ones. While frequently used in scientific and news media, remember that it might sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider using alternatives such as "can acquire" or "is able to get" to tailor your tone appropriately. Being mindful of these nuances ensures your writing remains both accurate and engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can acquire

Slightly shorter and more direct, focusing on the action of acquiring.

is able to acquire

Implies a demonstrated or inherent capability; slightly more formal.

can access

Emphasizes the possibility of using something or entering somewhere.

is capable of getting

Emphasizes the capability or potential to get something.

can secure

Suggests effort or action to ensure possession.

may procure

More formal and often implies a deliberate effort to acquire.

can gain access to

Focuses on the ability to enter or use something.

is eligible to receive

Highlights meeting specific conditions to be granted something.

can come by

More informal, suggesting acquisition through chance or ease.

can get hold of

Informal, emphasizing the act of finding or acquiring something, sometimes with difficulty.

FAQs

How do I use "can obtain" in a sentence?

"Can obtain" indicates the possibility or ability to acquire something, like in the sentence: "Students "can obtain" meals through SwipeShare discreetly." It's common in formal and informative contexts.

What can I say instead of "can obtain"?

You can use alternatives like "can acquire", "is able to get", or "can secure" depending on the context. Each alternative provides a slightly different nuance to the meaning.

Which is correct, "can obtain" or "can obtained"?

"Can obtain" is the correct form. "Obtain" is the base form of the verb and should be used after the modal verb "can". "Can obtained" is grammatically incorrect.

Is "can obtain" suitable for informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "can obtain" might sound too formal in casual conversations. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "can get" or "can come by" for a more natural tone.