it can be used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can be used" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is usually used to explain that something has the ability to be utilized or employed in a certain way. Example: "This new software has many features that can be useful for small businesses. It can be used to track inventory, manage payroll, and create invoices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It can be used again.

The Economist

Or it can be used therapeutically.

The New York Times - Magazine

First, it can be used again.

The Economist

"It can be used?" he asked.

The New York Times

It can be used like extract.

The New York Times - Food

"It can be used to exploit, or it can be used to promote positive messages".

The New York Times

At home, it can be used as a computer monitor.

The New York Times

And it can be used in more than just retail.

The Guardian - Tech

"It can be used appropriately or get you in trouble.

The New York Times

"It can be used for both aerospace and missile tracking".

The Guardian

"It can be used on liquids as well," he added.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it can be used", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the subject beforehand.

Common error

While "it can be used" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak and less direct. Consider rephrasing to use active voice where appropriate for a stronger impact. For example, instead of "The tool can be used by anyone", try "Anyone can use the tool".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be used" functions as a passive construction indicating the potential for something to be utilized. Ludwig's examples show it expressing capability or suitability across diverse subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

29%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it can be used" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent expression utilized to convey the potential utility or applicability of something. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, maintaining a generally neutral to professional tone. When employing this phrase, clarity is crucial to ensure the subject is well-defined, and overuse of the passive voice should be avoided for stronger, more direct writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is suitable for

Replaces the passive voice with an active statement of suitability.

it is applicable to

Uses a more formal adjective to indicate relevance and usability.

it may be employed for

Substitutes "used" with "employed", suggesting a more deliberate and planned application.

it's designed for

Indicates that the subject was specifically created with a certain purpose in mind.

it is helpful in

Focuses on the assistance provided by the subject, rather than its mere usability.

it lends itself to

Emphasizes the subject's inherent qualities that make it appropriate for a specific purpose.

it serves as a

Highlights the function or role that the subject fulfills.

it works for

A more informal way of saying that something is effective or appropriate for a task.

it has utility for

Directly states that the subject possesses practical value for a particular purpose.

it avails for

A more archaic and formal way of expressing that something is available and beneficial for use.

FAQs

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

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "it is applicable", "it is suitable", or "it may be employed". Each of these alternatives adds a layer of sophistication depending on the context.

What are some synonyms for "it can be used" in a technical context?

In technical writing, you could use "it is designed for", "it serves as", or "it functions as" to provide a more precise description of the subject's purpose or operation.

Is there a difference between "it can be used" and "it is used"?

"It can be used" suggests a possibility or potential for use, while "it is used" indicates that the subject is actually being utilized. The former implies a capability, the latter a current action.

How do I avoid ambiguity when using "it can be used" in a sentence?

Ensure the subject, or "it", is clearly defined in the preceding sentence or clause. If necessary, rephrase to explicitly name the subject to avoid any confusion for the reader.