it can be identified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it can be identified' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase expresses the possibility that something can be identified or recognized. For example, "The source of the pollution can be identified by the chemical composition of the air in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As each base passes through the hole, it can be identified by its physical and electrical characteristics.

The New York Times

It can be identified by its variegated dorsal coloration of brown or gray patches and numerous spots.

Wikipedia

It can be identified by its long snout, large, triangular pectoral fins, and large, anteriorly positioned first dorsal fin.

Wikipedia

It can be identified by its single dorsal fin, which is located over the large pelvic fins.

Wikipedia

It can be identified by its plain coloration and mostly smooth skin, except for a row of tubercles along the midline of the back in the largest individuals.

Wikipedia

In North America, the bald faced hornet is the most common - it can be identified by the white markings on its head and thorax.

WikiHow

"We want to determine if there is such a sound and if it can be identified".

The New York Times

Every body in dissection in medical colleges must be stored and used in a way that it can be identified.

The Guardian

The BioPod takes up to eight pictures of the fingertip so it can be identified from different angles and positions.

The New York Times - Tech

The time of deformation can be bracketed, however, if datable units, which both predate and postdate it, can be identified.

Britannica

It can be identified that KWP-bow KVLCC2 gives about 8% of energy saving in sea state 5 condition.

International Journal of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In reports or analyses, use “"it can be identified"” to highlight key observations or patterns that have been discovered.

Common error

Avoid using “"it can be identified"” in overly simple sentences where a more direct verb like 'found' or 'seen' would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be identified" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility of recognition or detection. Ludwig's examples show it is frequently used to describe how something can be recognized based on specific characteristics or methods.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it can be identified" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that indicates the possibility of recognizing or detecting something. According to Ludwig, this phrase is versatile and appears in various contexts, including science, news media, and general writing. It's important to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in simple contexts. Remember to clearly state the criteria or methods for identification when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity. The phrase's frequency and consistent usage across reliable sources contribute to its high expert rating.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it can be recognized

Similar in meaning, but uses "recognized" instead of "identified", implying familiarity or prior knowledge.

it's identifiable

A more concise and informal variation, using a contraction.

it is possible to recognize

Focuses on the possibility of recognition, using a more direct and straightforward construction.

it is possible to detect

Emphasizes the action of detecting, highlighting the act of finding or noticing something.

the object can be identified

Specifies 'object' as the thing being identified and adding specificity.

it may be distinguished

Suggests differentiation from other similar items, adding a nuance of comparison.

it is discernible

Emphasizes the quality of being noticeable or perceptible, highlighting its visibility.

it can be pinpointed

Suggests locating with precision, adding a sense of accuracy.

one can identify it

Shifts the focus to the agent (one) who is performing the identification.

identification is feasible

Focuses on the feasibility of the identification process, implying that it is achievable.

FAQs

How can I use "it can be identified" in a sentence?

You can use "it can be identified" to indicate that something is recognizable or detectable through certain means. For example, "The problem "it can be identified" by examining the data closely.".

What can I say instead of "it can be identified"?

Alternatives to "it can be identified" include "it can be recognized", "it is possible to detect", or "it may be distinguished", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "it can be identified" or "it could be identified"?

"It can be identified" indicates a present possibility, while "it could be identified" suggests a conditional or past possibility. The choice depends on the context and the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "it can be identified" and "it is identified"?

"It can be identified" implies that the identification is possible but not necessarily confirmed, while "it is identified" indicates that the identification has already occurred and is a confirmed fact.