can only be addressed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can only be addressed" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a particular issue or problem can be resolved or dealt with in a specific manner or under certain conditions. Example: "The concerns regarding data privacy can only be addressed through comprehensive policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This can only be addressed at the source and by working with the key countries involved.

The New Yorker

Educational disadvantage is not something that can only be addressed by classroom teachers.

The Guardian

This can only be addressed by politicians and their administrators becoming more mobile.

The Guardian - Opinion

He goes on to acknowledge, however, that it is a matter that can only be addressed by education.

The Guardian - Sport

To me, that can only be addressed if we debate and decide clear goals to align our efforts.

The Guardian

These need no exaggeration, and Maduro recognises that they can only be addressed through a national dialogue.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It can only be addressed by people realising that we're actually there to represent something more than ourselves," he said.

The Guardian

Panem's problem is straightforward compared with our own: sadly, the failings of our free society are our own fault, and can only be addressed on that basis.

The Guardian - Film

The fact that our structural problems can only be addressed if the 1% contribute more and receive less from the government has been ignored yet again.

The Guardian - Opinion

Suicide, homicide and self-harm is an endemic problem that can only be addressed by a dramatic reduction in prison numbers.

The Guardian

XXXXXXXXXXXX told us that Kazakhstan's endemic corruption problems can only be addressed through appropriate changes to legislation -- "all else is futile".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can only be addressed" when emphasizing that there is a specific or limited way to solve a problem or tackle an issue. This clarifies the approach and sets expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "can only be addressed" excessively, as overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Instead, try using active voice where possible to create a more direct and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can only be addressed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a particular problem or issue is capable of being handled or dealt with, but only through a specific means. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can only be addressed" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that emphasizes the limited or singular approach needed to tackle a specific problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When writing, remember to use it when highlighting a specific method, but also consider alternatives to avoid passive voice overuse. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively communicate the necessary steps for addressing various issues. The phrase is generally neutral in register, making it versatile across diverse writing styles and purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

must be resolved exclusively

Emphasizes the necessity and exclusivity of the resolution method.

can solely be tackled

Focuses on the unique approach required to handle something.

is exclusively solvable by

Highlights the single means of finding a solution.

requires a specific remedy

Underscores the need for a particular corrective action.

is uniquely handled through

Implies a special way of dealing with a problem.

only responds to

Indicates that the issue reacts positively to a certain intervention only.

can be resolved in no other way than

Highlights the lack of alternative ways to solve the problem.

demands a targeted solution

Emphasizes that the solution needs to be very specific.

is exclusively remediable via

Highlights the exclusive method to correct the problem.

admits only one approach

Implies that the problem allows for only one method to be resolved.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "can only be addressed" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "must be exclusively resolved", "is uniquely handled through", or "requires a specific remedy". These options convey the same meaning with a more elevated vocabulary.

What are some alternatives to "can only be addressed" for a less restrictive meaning?

If you want to suggest that other options are available, though perhaps less ideal, you could use phrases like "is best addressed by", "may be addressed by", or "can be addressed, in part, by".

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "can only be addressed"?

While grammatically correct, using "can only be addressed" might be misleading if there are, in reality, multiple viable solutions to a problem. Ensure the phrase accurately reflects the limited options available.

What is the difference between "can only be solved" and "can only be addressed"?

"Can only be solved" implies a complete resolution, whereas "can only be addressed" suggests that the issue is being dealt with or managed, even if not fully resolved.