can we recognize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can we recognize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking if it is possible to identify or acknowledge something. Example: "Can we recognize the contributions of all team members in this project?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

How else can we recognize ourselves?

The New York Times

Can we recognize that invisible thread which links them?

The Washington Post

Can we recognize both these faces of the West?

The Washington Post

"And right now he is asking us: Can we recognize God's image in someone who is not in my image?

The New York Times

What happens if, in an introductory course, there are real discrepancies in students' academic backgrounds — how can we recognize and work with these differences in a productive way?

Yale University

In particular, "How can we recognize legitimate corporate interests while avoiding plutocracy?" is as essential a question as "Is the federal bureaucracy a threat to personal freedom?" Those worried about the evils of Big Government need to look not only at the executive branch in Washington but also at the executive offices of our major corporations.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

If we support peace in Colombia, how can we not recognize Cuba's contribution?

Huffington Post

We can all benefit if we can recognize that we don't have to talk like a super genius to be seen as intelligent.

Forbes

So the question now is whether we can recognize we're at the lip of a chasm, and, just as important, whether we'll step back.

Huffington Post

Like those before us, we can recognize we are in trouble.

Forbes

Once we understand how our past influences our present, we can recognize when we are being triggered by the past.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can we recognize", ensure the context clearly defines what needs to be identified or acknowledged. Clarity will help avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "can we recognize" in overly abstract contexts where the subject of recognition is vague or undefined. This can lead to confusion and weaken your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can we recognize" functions primarily as an interrogative, seeking to ascertain the possibility or capacity for identification or acknowledgment. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability, supporting its function as a legitimate inquiry. Examples provided by Ludwig show its use in varied contexts, all maintaining this interrogative function.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can we recognize" serves as a grammatically sound and usable interrogative, prompting inquiry about the ability to identify or acknowledge something. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and functions well across various contexts, predominantly in news, scientific, and academic settings. While not exceedingly common, its usage is consistent and clear, making it a reliable option for expressing questions of recognition. Consider the context and nuance when selecting among alternatives such as "are we able to identify" or "can we discern".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can we identify

Shorter and more direct way to ask if identification is possible.

are we able to identify

Focuses on the ability to pinpoint or distinguish something.

can we discern

Asks about our ability to distinguish something, often implying a challenge.

can we distinguish

Highlights the act of differentiating between two or more things.

are we capable of discerning

More formal and emphasizes the ability to perceive subtle differences.

can we perceive

Focuses on the ability to become aware of something through the senses or intuition.

are we able to perceive

Emphasizes sensory awareness and recognition.

is it possible to acknowledge

Shifts the focus to the possibility of accepting or admitting something.

can we appreciate

Inquires about the capability to value and understand something fully.

are we in a position to appreciate

More nuanced, suggesting a deeper understanding and value.

FAQs

How can I use "can we recognize" in a sentence?

Use "can we recognize" to inquire about the ability to identify or acknowledge something. For example, "Can we recognize the signs of progress?" or "Can we recognize the value of their contribution?".

What are some alternatives to "can we recognize"?

Alternatives include "are we able to identify", "can we discern", or "is it possible to acknowledge", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "can we recognize"?

Yes, "can we recognize" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard interrogative structure in English, asking about the possibility or ability to recognize something.

What is the difference between "can we recognize" and "are we able to recognize"?

While both phrases are similar, "can we recognize" is more direct, while "are we able to recognize" can sometimes imply a more formal or emphatic inquiry about capability.