this can be turned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this can be turned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential to change or manipulate something, whether it's a physical object or an abstract concept. Example: "This can be turned into a profitable business if we strategize effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

This can be turned into equity.

Independent

"This can be turned around," he said.

The New York Times

In times of recession, this can be turned to advantage".

The Guardian

This can be turned over with the thumb.

The Guardian

Note: This can be turned off by course, and is only accessible if modules are used.

Yale University

Ms. Friedman, however, believes that even this can be turned to Mr. Gore's advantage.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Maybe this can be turn-based?

Vice

Fortunately, this feature can be turned off.

The New York Times

This proposal can be turned in by e-mail attachment.

Yale University

How this game can be turned on its head.

The Guardian - Sport

However, this heterogeneity can be turned to an advantage using a reverse of n-butane flow.

Catalysis Today

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this can be turned" when you want to emphasize the potential for positive change or transformation from a current state. Be specific about what "this" refers to for clarity.

Common error

Avoid excessive use of the passive voice. Instead of saying "this can be turned around", consider an active construction for a more direct and impactful statement: "We can turn this around".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this can be turned" functions primarily as a modal expression indicating possibility or potential. It suggests that a subject ("this") has the capacity to undergo a transformation or change of state. As Ludwig AI reports, this is a usable expression in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this can be turned" is a versatile and widely used expression that conveys the possibility of transformation or change. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and common in written English. It is often found in news articles and academic texts. While generally neutral in register, using specific synonyms might be more appropriate in formal or technical contexts. Be mindful of overusing the passive voice and ensure clarity by specifying what "this" refers to. When used effectively, "this can be turned" serves as a powerful tool to inspire hope and highlight opportunities for improvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this can be transformed

Replaces "turned" with "transformed", emphasizing a more significant change.

this can be converted

Substitutes "turned" with "converted", implying a change in form or function.

this can be modified

Implies alterations or adjustments can be made.

this can be fixed

Emphasizes that something broken or not working properly can be repaired.

this can be reversed

Focuses on the possibility of undoing or changing the direction of something.

this situation can be salvaged

Indicates that a negative situation can be saved or improved.

this can be adapted

Suggests that something can be changed to suit different conditions.

this can be improved

Highlights the potential for enhancement or betterment.

this can be reframed

Emphasizes changing the perspective or way something is viewed.

this can be remedied

Indicates a problem can be solved or fixed.

FAQs

How can I use "this can be turned" in a sentence?

You can use "this can be turned" to express the possibility of transforming something into something else, such as "This setback "can be turned" into an opportunity if we learn from our mistakes".

What's a more formal alternative to "this can be turned"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "this can be converted" or "this "can be transformed"" to convey a similar meaning with a more sophisticated tone.

Which is correct, "this can be turned around" or "this can turn around"?

"This can be turned around" is grammatically correct and implies that something can be improved or reversed. "This can turn around" is less common but could be used to describe something that has the inherent ability to change direction or improve on its own.

What can I say instead of "this can be turned" to emphasize improvement?

To emphasize improvement, you could use alternatives like "this can be improved", "this situation "can be salvaged"", or "this "can be remedied"".