it can include

USAGE SUMMARY

This is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English.
It can be used to introduce an idea that is related to the current conversation. For example: "This method of studying can be used to test a variety of abilities. It can include tests of writing, math, and critical thinking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

AlphaBayes was chosen because it can include real numbers in its design matrix for the SNP.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

"It can include foods.

The New York Times

It can include lively storytelling and critical interpretation.

The New York Times

In a product, it can include durability, reliability, even serviceability.

The Economist

It can include turning genes on or off.

Cornell University

In special case, it can include the existing switching laws satisfying MDADT or ADT.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

It can include food safety hazards, animal diseases and plant pests.

The Guardian

It can include current products, or newly created ones you've invented yourself.

The New York Times

It can include the cost of paying for 60 case workers.

The New York Times

It can include the giving of money, assets, time, talent, voice and one's social capital.

The Guardian

It can include forward and sideways acceleration and deceleration, vehicle speed, engine speed and steering inputs.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing examples following "it can include", ensure they are relevant and provide clarity to the statement.

Common error

While acceptable, excessive repetition of "it can include" may sound monotonous in formal writing. Consider varying your sentence structure or using synonyms like "it may encompass" or "it might feature" for better readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can include" functions as a connector, introducing examples, components, or aspects related to a topic. It indicates possibility rather than necessity. As seen in Ludwig's examples, this construction sets the stage for detailing what something might encompass without being exhaustive.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it can include" serves as a versatile phrase to introduce elements or examples. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English writing. The phrase is frequently used across different contexts, like news media and science, as showcased by the provided examples. For variety and enhanced writing style, consider alternatives such as "it may include" or "it could include". While "it can include" is generally acceptable, avoiding overuse is advisable, especially in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it may include

Replaces "can" with "may", suggesting a possibility rather than a certainty.

it might include

Substitutes "can" with "might", indicating a lower probability of inclusion compared to "may".

it could include

Uses "could" instead of "can", implying a potential but not guaranteed inclusion.

it has the potential to include

Rephrases to emphasize the potential for inclusion, adding a layer of formality.

it is capable of including

Expresses the ability to include something, focusing on capacity.

it is able to include

Similar to 'capable of', but slightly less formal.

it is known to include

Focuses on established knowledge or common practice of including something.

it sometimes includes

Highlights that the inclusion is not always consistent or guaranteed.

it occasionally includes

Similar to 'sometimes', but suggests inclusion is less frequent.

it is designed to include

Emphasizes the intentional design to include specific elements.

FAQs

How to use "it can include" in a sentence?

Use "it can include" to introduce a list of possible, but not necessarily exhaustive, elements or examples related to a subject. For instance, "A healthy diet can include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains."

What can I say instead of "it can include"?

You can use alternatives like "it may include", "it might include", or "it could include" to convey a similar meaning, depending on the context.

Is "it can include" formal or informal?

"It can include" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, consider using synonyms like "it may encompass" or "it is capable of including" for a more sophisticated tone.

What is the difference between "it can include" and "it must include"?

"It can include" suggests that something is optional or a possibility, while "it must include" indicates that something is mandatory or essential. The choice depends on whether you are describing a flexible or a required composition.