something can be done

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "something can be done" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that an action is possible or that it is possible to find a solution to a problem. For example, "The river is flooding rapidly, but something can be done to stop it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Anthony Atkinson thinks something can be done.

The New Yorker

Something can be done about that".

The New York Times

Luckily, something can be done.

The Guardian - Opinion

Maybe something can be done.

The New York Times

These folks still think that something can be done.

The Washington Post

"It's about seeing if something can be done.

The New York Times

He hopes something can be done about it.

The New Yorker

Know that, at last, something can be done.

The Guardian - Tech

But Mr. Chen hopes something can be done.

The New York Times

But again, just because something can be done, is it ethical to do it?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Sometimes, if you roll up your sleeves, something can be done," Jaques says.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something can be done" to express optimism and encourage action when facing challenges. It's effective in motivating others to seek solutions rather than accepting defeat.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions like "something can be done" when a more direct, active voice would be clearer and more impactful. For instance, instead of "something can be done to improve efficiency", consider "we can improve efficiency by doing X".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something can be done" functions as a modal construction expressing possibility or potential action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it suggests that a solution or intervention is feasible. Examples show its usage in various contexts, from addressing problems to offering hope.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

22%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something can be done" is a versatile phrase used to express the possibility of action or improvement in various situations. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in writing. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Academia. When using this phrase, aim to inspire hope and encourage proactive problem-solving. While grammatically correct, consider whether a more direct, active voice would strengthen your message. Remember that while "something can be done" suggests possibility, "something must be done" conveys urgency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

action can be taken

Focuses on the availability of actions to address a situation.

a solution is possible

Emphasizes the potential for resolving an issue.

steps can be implemented

Highlights the ability to put measures into effect.

it's possible to intervene

Focuses on the feasibility of taking action to change a situation.

measures can be adopted

Stresses that certain steps are available for use.

there's room for improvement

Suggests potential for positive changes or enhancements.

we can make a difference

Implies that one's actions can have a positive effect.

the situation is not hopeless

Offers reassurance that a positive outcome is still achievable.

change is achievable

Emphasizes the possibility of bringing about a different outcome.

we have agency to act

Highlights the capacity and right to take action.

FAQs

How can I use "something can be done" in a sentence?

Use "something can be done" to express the possibility of taking action or finding a solution to a problem. For example, "Although the challenge is significant, "something can be done" to address it".

What are some alternatives to "something can be done"?

Alternatives include "action can be taken", "a solution is possible", or "steps can be implemented" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use an active voice instead of "something can be done"?

While "something can be done" is grammatically correct, using an active voice can often make your writing more direct and impactful. Consider rephrasing to emphasize who is taking action, such as "we can find a solution".

What's the difference between "something can be done" and "something must be done"?

"Something can be done" implies possibility, while "something must be done" expresses necessity or urgency. The latter is a stronger statement, indicating that action is essential.