cannot be construed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be construed" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something cannot be interpreted or understood in a particular way. Example: "The terms of the agreement cannot be construed as a guarantee of success."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But that privilege cannot be construed to include the right to commit perjury...

Cornell University

But that privilege cannot be construed to include the right to commit perjury.

Cornell University

The definition's use of words like 'traitor' cannot be construed as representations of fact.

Cornell University

The Bible Believers' speech cannot be construed as fighting words because it was not directed at any individual.

The Washington Post

But his defeat by Joe Sestak in Pennsylvania's Democratic primary cannot be construed as a defeat for the party itself.

The Economist

The Devialet amplifiers are serious, but the Phantoms are a "life style" product, which, in the snobbish lexicon of high end, cannot be construed as a compliment.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

cannot reasonably be construed as assisting in the performance of abortions" and that state and federal laws do not apply.

The Washington Post

But UN resolution 1441, under which action was taken against Iraq, cannot reasonably be construed as having authorised this ill-advised war.

The Guardian

But this cannot simply be construed to mean one's reliance upon other-power but entails that one must appropriate that "grace" in self-power.

SEP

After all, a political-economic system, whether capitalist or socialist, is a broad and persistent phenomenon that cannot logically be construed as beneficial one decade yet destructive the next.

Forbes

If almost no players meet the schools' academic standards, then the enterprise itself cannot possibly be construed to be primarily an educational one.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be construed", ensure the sentence clearly specifies what interpretation is being rejected. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the argument.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be construed" when a simpler, more direct negative statement would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound overly formal or convoluted. Direct sentences are often clearer and more impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be construed" functions as a modal expression used to negate a particular interpretation or understanding. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that something should not be interpreted in a specific way. Examples from Ludwig confirm its role in denying certain inferences or conclusions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

Science

33%

News & Media

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot be construed" is a common expression, particularly in formal and scientific writing, used to negate specific interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and provides numerous examples across various contexts. Grammatically correct and widely used, it's essential for preventing misunderstanding. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the interpretation being rejected. While authoritative sources frequently employ the phrase, it's important to avoid overuse in order to maintain a clear and concise writing style. Alternatives such as "cannot be interpreted as" and "cannot be understood as" can provide variety and nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be interpreted as

Focuses specifically on the act of interpretation and its impossibility in a given context.

cannot be understood as

Emphasizes the lack of comprehension or the inability to grasp a particular meaning.

cannot be seen as

Highlights the visual or perceived aspect of interpretation, suggesting something should not be viewed in a certain light.

must not be taken to mean

Adds a sense of obligation or instruction, indicating that a particular interpretation should be actively avoided.

should not be inferred as

Focuses on the act of drawing conclusions, suggesting that a particular inference is invalid or unwarranted.

cannot be deduced to be

Emphasizes the impossibility of logical deduction leading to a certain conclusion.

is not to be regarded as

Indicates that something should not be considered or treated in a specific way.

cannot be characterized as

Highlights the inability to categorize or describe something in a particular manner.

should not be considered

Suggests caution against regarding a specific way.

it is incorrect to assume

Directly addresses the falsity of a potential assumption.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be construed" in a sentence?

Use "cannot be construed" to indicate that a particular interpretation or understanding of something is incorrect or invalid. For example, "The data "cannot be construed to falsify" the hypothesis".

What are some alternatives to "cannot be construed"?

Alternatives include "cannot be interpreted as", "cannot be understood as", or "cannot be seen as". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "cannot be construed" and "cannot be interpreted"?

While similar, "cannot be construed" often implies a broader range of possible interpretations, whereas "cannot be interpreted" focuses more specifically on the act of interpretation itself. Both suggest an invalid understanding.

Is it better to use "cannot be construed as" or "cannot be construed to be"?

Both forms are grammatically correct, but "cannot be construed as" is generally more concise and preferred. The phrase "cannot be construed to be" can sometimes sound slightly more formal but is often unnecessary.