that can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that can" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a subordinate clause that expresses ability or possibility. Here are some examples: - The new software includes a feature that can automatically convert files into different formats. - I have a very busy schedule, but I will try to find a time that can work for both of us. - We need to find a solution that can address all of the issues raised in the meeting. - The doctor prescribed a medication that can help reduce inflammation. - There are many careers that can allow you to travel and explore different cultures.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All that can come later.

The New York Times

that can stop a conversation.

WikiHow

Something that can captivate them.

WikiHow

Well, that can change.

The New York Times - Magazine

All that can happen".

The New York Times - Sports

That can get awkward.

The New York Times

That can still happen.

The New York Times

That can be expensive.

The New York Times

That can be misleading.

The New York Times

That can get old.

The New York Times

"Maybe that can change".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that can" to introduce relative clauses that specify a capability or potential, ensuring clarity and conciseness in your writing.

Common error

Avoid stacking multiple clauses with "that can" in a single sentence, as it can lead to convoluted and difficult-to-read prose. Break down complex ideas into simpler sentences for better comprehension.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that can" functions as a relative pronoun + auxiliary verb combination, introducing a relative clause that modifies a noun or pronoun by describing its ability or potential. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its versatility across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that can" is a versatile and frequently used construction in the English language. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions primarily as a relative clause introducer, specifying the abilities or potentials associated with a preceding noun or pronoun. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, ranging from formal news reports to informal online discussions. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it is important to avoid overuse in overly complex sentences, ensuring clarity and readability. Explore the many examples Ludwig offers to refine your understanding and usage of "that can" in various writing scenarios. Alternatives include "which may", "that is able to", and "that could", offering nuanced options for expressing possibility and capability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that could

Expresses a conditional possibility or past ability.

that is able to

Emphasizes the ability to do something, more formal than "that can".

which may

Focuses on the possibility of something occurring, less direct than "that can".

that might

Suggests a weaker possibility compared to "that can".

that has the potential to

Highlights the potential for something to happen or develop.

capable of

Highlights capacity or ability, omitting a relative pronoun.

that allows you to

Emphasizes permission or enablement.

which will

Expresses future tense or a conditional and it is less about the ability but about the occurrence.

that facilitates

Focuses on making something easier or possible.

that is designed to

Focuses on the intended function or purpose.

FAQs

How to use "that can" in a sentence?

Use "that can" to introduce a clause that describes an ability or possibility. For example, "The new software has a feature "that can" automatically convert files."

What can I say instead of "that can"?

You can use alternatives like "which may", "that is able to", or "that could" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "that can" or "which can"?

"That can" and "which can" are often interchangeable, but "that" is typically used for restrictive clauses (essential to the sentence's meaning), while "which" is used for non-restrictive clauses (adding extra information). For example, "The tool "that can" perform this task is expensive" (essential) vs. "This tool, "which can" perform this task, is expensive" (extra info).

What's the difference between "that can" and "that will"?

"That can" describes an ability or potential, while "that will" expresses a future action or certainty. For instance, "A device "that can" measure temperature" indicates a capability, whereas "A device "that will" measure temperature" means it will definitely do so in the future.