could be regarded as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be regarded as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how something may be perceived or interpreted by others. Example: "The new policy could be regarded as a significant step towards sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jobs could be regarded as a benign dictator.

The Guardian - Tech

"He could be regarded as an ombudsman," Mr. Sillar said.

The New York Times

It could be regarded as conduct unbecoming the European champions.

The Guardian - Sport

Now the resulting spill could be regarded as a warning.

The New York Times

Now it could be regarded as sleepy, although a major industry is not.

The New York Times

In this context, in fact, he could be regarded as half mad, and perhaps he is.

The New Yorker

Anyone helping them to do so could be regarded as facilitating illegal immigration.

The Guardian

If some of its manifestations appeared contradictory, that could be regarded as proof of its vitality.

Britannica

He questioned whether civilian casualties at such a level could be regarded as a mistake.

The Guardian

Last week I asked if Memento Mori could be regarded as a cruel book.

The Guardian - Books

This could be regarded as unfortunate.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be regarded as", ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the regarding. Adding a specific subject (e.g., "Experts could regard this as...") strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice with "could be regarded as". While grammatically correct, excessive passive voice can make your writing sound weak or evasive. Consider active alternatives when appropriate to improve clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be regarded as" functions as a modal passive construction. It indicates a possibility or potential for something to be viewed or considered in a certain way. Ludwig AI confirms this grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Academia

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Encyclopedias

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Wiki

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could be regarded as" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that suggests a potential interpretation or viewpoint. As pointed out by Ludwig AI, it's a modal passive construction that indicates a possibility for something to be viewed in a particular way. While the phrase is relatively neutral in register, it's important to consider the context and audience when choosing whether to use it, as more direct or active alternatives might be suitable in some cases. Remember to specify who holds the viewpoint for improved clarity. Since there are no exact examples available, you might consider alternative expressions such as "might be considered" or "can be seen as" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be considered

Replaces "could" with "might" offering a slightly weaker degree of possibility; "regarded" is replaced by "considered" indicating a more general assessment.

may be deemed

Substitutes "could" with "may", expressing possibility and "regarded" with "deemed", suggesting a more formal judgment.

can be seen as

Uses "can" instead of "could", indicating possibility or ability; "regarded" is replaced by "seen", which is more informal and direct.

might be viewed as

Replaces "could" with "might", suggesting a weaker possibility, and "regarded" with "viewed", implying a particular perspective.

may be interpreted as

Substitutes "could" with "may", indicating possibility, and "regarded" with "interpreted", emphasizing understanding or explanation.

could be perceived as

Replaces "regarded" with "perceived", focusing on how something is sensed or understood.

can be understood as

Uses "can" instead of "could", suggesting a potential for comprehension; "regarded" is replaced by "understood", emphasizing comprehension.

might be classified as

Replaces "regarded" with "classified", indicating placement within a specific category or group.

may be characterized as

Substitutes "could" with "may" and "regarded" with "characterized", highlighting specific qualities or attributes.

can be labeled as

Uses "can" and replaces "regarded" with "labeled", suggesting a simplified or potentially limiting categorization.

FAQs

What does "could be regarded as" mean?

The phrase "could be regarded as" indicates a possibility or potential for something to be viewed or considered in a particular way. It suggests that there is a valid perspective from which the subject can be interpreted in the stated manner.

How can I use "could be regarded as" in a sentence?

You can use "could be regarded as" to introduce an alternative viewpoint or potential interpretation. For example, "This decision "could be regarded as" a compromise." Remember to specify who might hold that view for clarity.

What are some alternatives to "could be regarded as"?

Alternatives include phrases like "might be considered", "may be deemed", or "can be seen as". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "could be regarded as" formal or informal?

The phrase "could be regarded as" leans towards the formal side. For more informal contexts, consider using alternatives like "can be seen as" or "might be viewed as".