could be found

USAGE SUMMARY

'could be found' is correct and appropriate for use in written English.
It is used when something is thought to exist, or when introducing a potential option. For example: "The article I was looking for could be found on page twenty-seven."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

None could be found.

The New York Times

No cure could be found.

The New York Times

No relationship could be found.

The New York Times

Perhaps a solution could be found.

Independent

Nobody with a key could be found.

The New York Times

Who knows what could be found?

Independent

Surely they could be found?

The New York Times - Magazine

The thesis could be found here.

Harvard University

Slow resorptive activity could be found.

Biomaterials

No metal impurities could be found.

Nature

By 1960, none could be found.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could be found" to introduce a potential location or source of information. For instance, "More details about the project "could be found" in the appendix."

Common error

Avoid using "could be found" excessively in passive voice constructions. Instead, opt for active voice where possible to make your writing more direct and engaging. Example: Instead of "A solution "could be found" by implementing these changes", try "Implementing these changes could lead to a solution".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be found" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating possibility or potentiality. It suggests that something has the potential to be located or discovered, but it is not a certainty. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

33%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could be found" is a versatile and grammatically correct modal verb phrase used to indicate the potential location, existence, or discovery of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While it's common, avoid overuse in passive constructions to maintain a clear and engaging writing style. Consider alternatives like "could be discovered" or "might be located" for nuanced meaning. By understanding its function and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate "could be found" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be discovered

Emphasizes the act of finding something new or previously unknown.

might be located

Focuses on the potential location or placement of something.

may be present

Indicates the possibility of something existing or being in a particular place.

can be detected

Highlights the ability to identify or sense something, often through specific methods.

could be identified

Focuses on the potential to recognize or distinguish something from others.

may be ascertained

Implies a process of finding something out for certain.

could be determined

Highlights the possibility of establishing something definitively.

might exist

Simply indicates the possibility of something's existence.

can be uncovered

Emphasizes the act of revealing something hidden or concealed.

might surface

Suggests the potential for something to become apparent or known.

FAQs

How can I use "could be found" in a sentence?

Use "could be found" to indicate the potential location or existence of something. For instance, "The missing documents "could be found" in the archives", or "A solution to the problem "could be found" through further research".

What are some alternatives to "could be found"?

You can use alternatives such as "could be discovered", "might be located", or "may be present" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "can be found" instead of "could be found"?

Both "can be found" and "could be found" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Can be found" implies a general possibility or ability, while "could be found" suggests a conditional or potential possibility. For example, "Information about the topic can be found online" versus "Information about the topic "could be found" if you search thoroughly".

What is the difference between "could be found" and "is available"?

"Could be found" implies a possibility of discovery or location, while "is available" indicates that something is currently accessible or obtainable. For example, "The rare book "could be found" in a specialized library" versus "The digital version of the book "is available" for download online".