they can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they can" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the ability or possibility of a group of people or things to perform an action. Example: "They can complete the project ahead of schedule if they work together efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They can.

The New York Times

They can but try.

The Economist

They can see it".

The New York Times

They can be corrupt.

The New York Times

They can go anywhere.

The New York Times

They can stay home.

The New York Times - Books

"They can sniff it.

The New York Times

And they can bend.

The New York Times

They can also succeed.

The New York Times

"People — they can disappear".

The New York Times

They can be buried.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they can" to express the ability, permission, or possibility for a group to perform an action. Ensure the context clearly identifies who "they" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "they can" when the antecedent of "they" is ambiguous or unclear. Always ensure the reader knows exactly who or what "they" refers to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they can" primarily functions as a modal auxiliary verb construction. It expresses ability, possibility, or permission. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they can" is a versatile and commonly used construction expressing ability, permission, or possibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's essential to ensure clarity in pronoun reference when using this phrase. While its register is generally neutral, its specific nuance shifts with context. By considering its varied applications, writers can effectively use "they can" to convey intended meanings with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are able to

Replaces the contraction with a full form, emphasizing capability.

they are capable of

Highlights their inherent capability or skill.

they have the ability to

More formal way of expressing the capacity to do something.

they have the potential to

Emphasizes their undeveloped ability to achieve something.

they are authorized to

Implies formal approval or authorization to perform an action.

they are permitted to

Indicates that they have been given permission to do something.

they are empowered to

Suggests they have been given the authority or power to act.

it is possible for them to

Focuses on the possibility of them doing something.

they are entitled to

Indicates they have a right or claim to do something.

they are in a position to

Suggests they have the resources or circumstances to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "they can" in a sentence?

"They can" is used to express ability, permission, or possibility. For example, "If they practice regularly, "they can" improve their skills".

What can I say instead of "they can"?

You can use alternatives like "they are able to", "they are permitted to", or "it is possible for them to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "they can" or "they could"?

Both are correct, but "they can" indicates present ability or possibility, while "they could" usually suggests past ability, a conditional possibility, or a polite request.

What's the difference between "they can" and "they may"?

"They can" indicates ability or capability, while "they may" suggests permission or possibility. For example, "They can swim" means they have the skill, but "they may swim" implies they have permission or it's possible.