it can be perceived

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can be perceived" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how something is understood or interpreted by individuals or groups. Example: "In this context, it can be perceived that the author's intent was to challenge societal norms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

If a subordinate gives a gift, it can be perceived as currying favor, especially if it's elaborate.

The New York Times

Because of a tip's nature as a gift or a favour, it can be perceived as an implication of servility.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But if the tone connotes anger, insult or sarcasm, it can be perceived as a sign of rejection.

The New York Times

As the relationship continues and other, cheaper gifts are given, it can be perceived as a slight by the receiver.

Independent

"If we do our job right, it can be perceived as an attempt to divert attention away from the economy and the war and the lack of direction in the country," said Celinda Lake, a Democratic pollster.

The New York Times

Income equality is fine if it is "naturally" achieved, but if it is socially engineered it can be perceived as class warfare, a plot against the well-to-do.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Your monitor, and the bright, blue light it emits, can be perceived by your brain as daylight.

TechCrunch

Steer away from shirts with unusual writing on it, as that can be perceived as weird.

WikiHow

Thus, while the ontology of physical sounds does not permit their co-existence, their mental images do allow it, and once they can be perceived as components of a collection, one also recognizes the imprint of the sequence in which they were perceived.

SEP

It is real and can be perceived and felt".

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Sometimes it means that only what can be perceived by our five senses is really real.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it can be perceived", be mindful of the context and audience to ensure the perception you're describing is relevant and understandable to them.

Common error

While "it can be perceived" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider whether an active construction would be more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "it can be perceived as a threat", try "some perceive it as a threat".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be perceived" functions as a modal passive construction, introducing a subjective viewpoint or interpretation. Ludwig AI shows this phrase is used to indicate how something might be understood or experienced by others, rather than stating an objective fact. The modal verb 'can' indicates possibility or potential.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

40%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it can be perceived" is a modal phrase used to introduce a subjective interpretation or viewpoint. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and formal communication. Be mindful of overusing the passive voice and consider more direct alternatives when appropriate. While "it can be perceived" is a useful phrase for introducing potential interpretations, ensure the context and audience are considered to maintain clarity and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it may be interpreted

Replaces 'can' with 'may', suggesting possibility rather than capability of being perceived.

it might be seen as

Substitutes 'perceived' with 'seen as', emphasizing the visual aspect of interpretation.

it could be understood

Changes 'perceived' to 'understood', focusing on comprehension rather than sensory input.

it is possible to view it

Emphasizes the act of viewing or considering something in a particular way.

it can be construed

Replaces 'perceived' with 'construed', suggesting a more deliberate interpretation.

it is capable of being viewed

Highlights the capability of something to be viewed in a specific manner.

it has the potential to be seen

Focuses on the potential or possibility of being viewed in a certain light.

it's open to interpretation

Indicates that the subject is not definitive and allows for subjective understanding.

it lends itself to the impression

Suggests that the subject naturally leads to a particular impression or understanding.

it gives the impression

Focuses on the impression something creates, implying a subjective understanding.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it can be perceived" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "it may be interpreted", "it could be construed as", or "it is possible to view it" depending on the specific context.

What is a simpler alternative to "it can be perceived"?

Simpler alternatives include phrases like "it seems", "it appears", or "some think". These options are less formal and more direct.

Is "it can be perceived" always a subjective statement?

Yes, "it can be perceived" introduces a subjective interpretation. It indicates that the statement reflects a viewpoint that is not necessarily universally accepted or objectively verifiable. If you want to state an objective truth, you may avoid "it can be perceived".

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

"It can be perceived" suggests a possibility or potential for a certain understanding, while "it is perceived" implies that the understanding is already happening, though not necessarily universally. The former is more tentative, while the latter is more assertive.