can this be done

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'can this be done' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking if something is possible or can be accomplished. For example, "Can this project be completed in two weeks?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But how can this be done?

The Economist

But how can this be done effectively?

The New York Times

So can this be done?

The Guardian - Opinion

So how can can this be done?

The Guardian

But how often can this be done?

The New York Times - Arts

Can this be done overland, by train?

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

In short can this be done?

Environmental Health Perspectives

Can this actually be done?

The New York Times

Can this even be done?

Forbes

This can be done.

The New Yorker

This can be done again.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can this be done", consider the context to ensure the tone matches the situation. In formal settings, it's often better to use more precise language to convey possibility or feasibility.

Common error

While "can this be done" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Opt for stronger, more direct phrasing such as "is this feasible" or "is this achievable" to add clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "can this be done" is to form a question that explores the possibility or feasibility of a task or action. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

31%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can this be done" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that questions the possibility or feasibility of an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English across various contexts. While its register is generally neutral, formal settings may benefit from more precise alternatives such as "is it feasible" or "is it achievable". The phrase appears frequently in News & Media and Academia. When considering its use, reflect on the context to ensure the phrasing aligns with the overall tone and formality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it possible

Emphasizes the sheer possibility of something occurring.

is it feasible

Focuses on the practicality and possibility of achieving something.

is it achievable

Highlights whether a goal or task can be successfully reached.

can it be implemented

Highlights the action of putting a plan or project into effect.

is it within reach

Focuses on the attainability of a goal or objective.

can it be realized

Focuses on bringing a plan or idea into reality.

can it be executed

Focuses on the successful completion of a task or plan.

is it viable

Considers whether something is capable of working successfully.

is it within our capabilities

Asks if something is possible considering the available resources and skills.

is it within the realm of possibility

Emphasizes that something might be unlikely, but still conceivable.

FAQs

What does "can this be done" mean?

The phrase "can this be done" inquires whether something is possible or feasible to achieve. It's a straightforward way to ask about the practicality or possibility of a task, project, or idea.

How can I use "can this be done" in a sentence?

You can use "can this be done" to question the feasibility of a plan. For example, "Given our limited resources, "can this be done" within the proposed timeframe?"

What can I say instead of "can this be done"?

You can use alternatives like "is it possible", "is it feasible", or "is it achievable" depending on the specific context.

Is "can this be done" formal or informal?

"Can this be done" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for very formal settings, a more sophisticated phrase like "is this viable" might be preferable.