can use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about being able to do something. For example: "I can use my phone to text my friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can use it!

The New York Times

Teachers can use both.

The New York Times

"We can use this".

The New Yorker

"You can use it.

The New York Times - Science

News you can use.

The Economist

I can use that!

The New Yorker

"Everyone can use it.

The New York Times

News they can use?

The New York Times

News dads can use.

The New York Times

"I can use this".

The New York Times - Health

"You can use humor.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that the subject performing the action is clearly defined, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid stringing multiple clauses together with "can use" as it might lead to convoluted sentences. Break down complex ideas into simpler statements for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can use" primarily functions as a modal verb construction indicating the ability, permission, or possibility to utilize something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

47%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can use" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase that indicates the ability or permission to utilize something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. While generally neutral, it's important to consider the specific context to avoid overuse in formal writing. Alternatives like "is able to utilize" or "has the ability to employ" may be more appropriate in certain situations. Remember to ensure clear subject-action relationship and break down complex sentences for optimal clarity when employing the phrase "can use".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is capable of using

Highlights the capacity to "use", focusing on capability.

is able to utilize

Replaces "can" with "is able" and "use" with "utilize", indicating ability and application.

has the ability to employ

Emphasizes the capability to "employ" something, adding a formal tone.

can operate

Focuses on the action of "operating" something.

could implement

Focuses on the act of putting something into effect.

might employ

Indicates a possibility of using something.

may apply

Suggests possibility of application.

is permitted to exploit

Suggests permission to "exploit" something, often in a resourceful way.

can harness

Suggests the ability to control and make use of natural resources, especially to produce energy.

is allowed to wield

Implies permission to handle or exert something, often power or influence.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can use" indicates the ability or permission to utilize something. Ensure the subject is capable of performing the action. For example, "I can use this software" or "You can use the provided materials".

What are some alternatives to "can use"?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "is able to utilize", "has the ability to employ", or "is capable of using" to convey similar meanings.

Is it ever incorrect to use "can use"?

While grammatically correct, overuse or placing it in awkward sentence structures might reduce clarity. Ensure the sentence flows naturally and the meaning is clear. Avoid using "can use" in overly formal contexts where more sophisticated vocabulary is appropriate.

What's the difference between "can use" and "may use"?

"Can use" indicates ability, while "may use" implies permission. For example, "I can use a computer" means I have the skill, while "I may use a computer" means I have permission to do so.