they can be found

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they can be found" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating the location or availability of something or someone. Example: "In the library, they can be found on the second floor, near the reference section."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They can be found through HealthCare.gov.gov

The New York Times

Now they can be found in Singapore and Kazakhstan.

The Economist

They can be found on the main and eighth floors.

The New York Times

(They can be found at stores like Saks and Searle).

The New York Times

I'd be interested to know where they can be found.

The Guardian - Books

They can be found at HopeNow.com or [phone].

The New York Times

They can be found respectively at beautyalert.biz and at onceopened.com.

The New York Times

But where they can be found, they are hunted.

The New York Times

Typically they can be found on the firm's websites.

BBC

They can be found on eBay, though some manufacturers, like Pentax, sell their own.

The New York Times - Tech

They can be found lining certain streets in Beyoglu, a district of Istanbul.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "they can be found", ensure the subject (they) is clearly defined in the preceding context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on passive constructions like "they can be found" in your writing. Active voice often creates more direct and engaging sentences. Instead of "they can be found at the store", try "you can find them at the store".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they can be found" primarily functions as a passive construction indicating location or availability. This usage is verified by Ludwig, which highlights examples in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Wiki

26%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they can be found" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating the location or availability of something. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various domains, particularly in news, wikis, and scientific contexts. While versatile, writers should consider using active voice alternatives for more direct and engaging writing. Related phrases like "they are located" or "you can find them" offer nuanced options for expressing similar ideas. Ultimately, the phrase remains a useful tool for guiding readers and providing information about accessibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are located

Replaces the passive voice "can be found" with a more direct statement of location, conveying a similar meaning.

one can find them

Uses the impersonal pronoun "one" to suggest a general possibility of finding something.

they are discoverable

Highlights the potential for something to be found, emphasizing the process of discovery.

you can locate them

Shifts the focus to the action of the user (you) locating something, rather than the state of being findable.

their whereabouts are known

Emphasizes that the location is known by someone, but not necessarily easily accessible to the user.

they are available

Indicates that something exists and is accessible, with less emphasis on the act of finding.

they are obtainable

Similar to "they are available" but emphasizes the possibility of getting or acquiring something, rather than just its existence.

they may be detected

Focuses on the ability to identify or perceive something, often in a scientific or investigative context.

they exist

A general affirmation of presence without specifying a location or ease of discovery.

where to find them

This is actually a question. Highlights that the location or way of finding is something that is subject of questioning.

FAQs

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

Use "they can be found" to indicate where something is located or available. For example, "The missing keys can be found under the couch" or "Answers to your questions "they can be answered" on the website".

What are some alternatives to saying "they can be found"?

Alternatives include "they are located", "they are available", or "you can find them". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice when describing where something is located?

While "they can be found" is grammatically correct, using the active voice (e.g., "you can find them") often makes your writing more direct and engaging. Consider the context and your desired tone.

Can "they can be found" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "they can be found" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in very formal contexts, consider using more precise language depending on your audience.