can yet be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can yet be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the possibility or potential for something to happen or exist in the future, often in a more formal or literary context. Example: "Despite the challenges we face, a solution can yet be found if we work together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

None of these questions can yet be confidently answered.

The Economist

But perhaps the WHO can yet be handbagged into shape.

The Economist

Let's hope this historic cinema can yet be saved.

The Guardian - Film

In fact, no artist can yet be credited for this comedy about Mr. and Mrs. O'Squat.

Princeton University

Super Mario can yet be the star who makes the difference for City this year.

The New York Times - Sports

There's no evidence of either action, but neither can yet be ruled out.

Independent

Given the complexity of the issues, none of these questions can yet be answered definitively.

The New York Times

Perhaps the administration can yet be persuaded of the error of its ways.

The New York Times

None of the long-term problems facing the economy can yet be considered a crisis.

The New York Times

Too few studies have examined muscle concerns so no conclusions can yet be drawn about this domain.

Body Image

No one can yet be sure.There are lingering worries, too, about aspects of Mr Putin's foreign policy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can yet be" to express a possibility that still exists, especially when addressing doubts or challenges. It adds a touch of optimism or hope.

Common error

Avoid using "can yet be" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formal tone might sound out of place; consider simpler alternatives like "still can be" or "may be" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can yet be" functions as an auxiliary verb phrase to express possibility or potential. As Ludwig AI indicates, it suggests that an action or state is still achievable or possible, despite existing challenges or uncertainties. It often carries a sense of hope or anticipation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

42%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can yet be" functions as an auxiliary verb phrase expressing possibility or potential, often with a nuance of hope or optimism. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various authoritative sources, including news media, scientific publications, and academic texts. While slightly formal, it's versatile enough for neutral contexts, conveying that a desired outcome is still achievable despite present challenges. Consider alternatives like "can still be" for more casual scenarios. The phrase's frequency and consistent usage solidify its place as a valuable tool in expressing nuanced possibilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can still be

Replaces "yet" with "still", suggesting that something is possible despite previous circumstances.

can however be

Adds "however" to introduce a contrast or a condition to the possibility.

can already be

Uses "already" to indicate that something is possible now or sooner than expected.

can even be

Emphasizes the possibility, suggesting it might be surprising or unexpected.

may still be

Replaces "can" with "may", indicating a lower degree of certainty about the possibility.

might yet be

Similar to "may still be", but with a slightly more tentative tone.

could still be

Uses "could" to express a potential possibility, often depending on certain conditions.

has the potential to be

Shifts the phrasing to emphasize the inherent potential for something to happen.

remains possible

Expresses that something is still within the realm of possibility.

could potentially be

Combines "could" and "potentially" to further emphasize uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "can yet be" in a sentence?

The phrase "can yet be" indicates a possibility that still exists. For example, "Despite the setbacks, success "can yet be" achieved with perseverance."

What are some alternatives to "can yet be"?

You can use alternatives like "can still be", "may yet be", or "remains possible" depending on the context.

Is "can yet be" more formal than "can still be"?

Yes, "can yet be" often carries a slightly more formal or literary tone compared to the more common "can still be".

What does "can yet be" imply about the situation?

The phrase "can yet be" suggests that despite challenges or doubts, a particular outcome is still within the realm of possibility. It implies a sense of hope or potential that has not been fully extinguished.