it can be wide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can be wide" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the potential width of an object, space, or concept in various contexts. Example: "The river can be wide during the rainy season, making it difficult to cross."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Likewise, and where Digi.me sees a potentially very large business (since it charges on a per access basis, capped at $3 per user), is that the platform allows any company to have what he quite convincingly argues can be better data than Google et al because it can be wider and deeper and should remain a lot more accurate.

TechCrunch

Or it can be wide-ranging across many health system functions, structures, processes and results.

Health Research Policy and Systems

What would be useful is matching things not just to what we think is a problem on a ward because it can be wider, it is looking outside…because we're blinkered.

BMC Infectious Diseases

It can be wider than one inch.

WikiHow

The swings in value can be wide.

The New York Times

Such nonparametric bounds can be wide.

IZA Journal of Labor Economics

I will acknowledge that sometimes conversations can be wide open.

Vice

That gap can be wider.

The New York Times

But the margins these days can be wider than ever.

The New York Times

Flower beds can be wider, tolerating an occasional step.

The New York Times

It can be a wide range of different styles and genres".

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it can be wide" when describing the potential range, scope, or breadth of a topic, idea, or physical object. For example, "The definition of art can be wide, encompassing many forms of expression."

Common error

Avoid using "it can be wide" as a vague generality. Always provide context to clarify what 'it' refers to and in what sense it can be considered 'wide'. Instead of saying "The possibilities can be wide", specify: "The range of potential solutions can be wide, from simple fixes to complete overhauls."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be wide" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating a potential attribute of something. It suggests the possibility of something having considerable breadth, range, or scope.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it can be wide" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to describe the potential breadth, scope, or range of something. While Ludwig doesn't provide specific examples for this phrase, this does not negate its correctness or utility. Alternatives such as "it has the potential to be broad" and "it is capable of being expansive" offer similar meanings. When using the phrase, ensure the context clarifies what 'it' refers to, avoiding vague generalities. Its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide array of communication scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has the potential to be broad

Emphasizes potential, using 'has the potential' instead of 'can'.

it is capable of being expansive

Replaces 'wide' with 'expansive', focusing on the ability to extend.

it's able to be extensive

Uses 'able' instead of 'can', with 'extensive' as a synonym for 'wide'.

it may become broad

Indicates possibility of widening, using 'may become' instead of 'can be'.

its scope might increase

Focuses on the 'scope' widening rather than the physical dimension.

it could extend considerably

Replaces 'wide' with 'extend considerably', implying significant expansion.

it has room to grow

Figurative, emphasizing potential for development and expansion.

it is not necessarily limited

Focuses on the absence of limitations rather than explicit width.

it is designed to be all-encompassing

Shifts focus to design intent, implying comprehensive coverage.

it's meant to be inclusive

Highlights inclusivity rather than physical width.

FAQs

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

Use "it can be wide" to describe something that has a broad scope, range, or potential. For example, "The interpretation of this rule "can be wide", leading to various applications".

What's the difference between "it can be wide" and "it can be broad"?

"It can be wide" and "it can be broad" are very similar. "Wide" often refers to physical dimensions or range, while "broad" often relates to scope or variety. However, in many contexts, they "can be interchangeable".

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

You can use alternatives such as "it can be extensive", "it can be broad", or "it can be expansive" depending on the specific context.

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

Both "it can be wide" and "it could be wide" are grammatically correct. "It can be wide" suggests a general possibility, while "it could be wide" indicates a conditional or less certain possibility. They "are interchangeable" with slightly different nuances.