can wait

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can wait" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is not urgent and can be postponed or delayed. Example: "I have a lot of work to do, but the meeting can wait until tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I can wait.

The New Yorker

But football can wait.

The New York Times - Sports

Names can wait.

The New Yorker

The country can wait.

Independent

The Oscars can wait.

The New York Times

But embitterment can wait.

The New Yorker

Everything can wait.

Independent

But that can wait.

The New York Times

Transparency can wait.

The Economist

Heaven can wait.

The Economist

Eden can wait.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can wait" to indicate that something doesn't require immediate attention or action. It's useful when prioritizing tasks or managing expectations.

Common error

In highly formal documents or professional communications, overuse of "can wait" might sound too casual. Consider using more formal alternatives like "can be deferred" or "can be postponed" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can wait" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating possibility or permission to delay an action or event. Ludwig shows its use in various contexts to express that something is not urgent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can wait" is a versatile and frequently used expression that indicates something is not urgent and can be postponed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears most commonly in news and media sources. While generally neutral in register, it is advisable to use more formal alternatives in highly professional settings. Consider using phrases like "can be delayed" or "can be postponed" in such contexts. Understanding its function and purpose allows for effective communication and prioritization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be delayed

Replaces "wait" with "delayed", emphasizing the act of postponing something.

can be postponed

Similar to "can be delayed", but suggests a more formal or planned delay.

is not urgent

Shifts the focus to the lack of immediate need, implying that it can be delayed.

is not pressing

Similar to "is not urgent", but suggests that something doesn't demand immediate action.

can be put off

A more informal way of saying something can be delayed.

can stand to be deferred

More formal phrasing, suggesting that delaying something is acceptable or even beneficial.

is not time-sensitive

Emphasizes that timing isn't critical, allowing for flexibility in when it's addressed.

there's no rush

An informal way of indicating that something can be done later without pressure.

it's not a priority

Highlights that other things are more important, allowing this to be delayed.

it's not essential right now

Indicates that it isn't necessary at this moment, implying it can be deferred.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "can wait"?

When something "can wait", it means it is not urgent or essential at the moment and can be delayed until a later time. It implies that there are other things that need to be taken care of first.

How to use "can wait" in a sentence?

You can use "can wait" in a sentence to express that something is not a priority. For example: "The dishes "can wait", I need to finish this report first."

What are some similar phrases to "can wait"?

Similar phrases include "can be delayed", "can be postponed", or "is not urgent". These alternatives all convey the idea of something being deferred to a later time.

Is it appropriate to use "can wait" in formal writing?

While "can wait" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as informal in certain formal contexts. In those cases, consider using more formal alternatives like "can be deferred" or "can be delayed".