this can be used

USAGE SUMMARY

"this can be used" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea that something is applicable or available for use in some way. For example: "This computer program can be used for creating new designs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This can be used to represent hierarchies.

The Economist

this can be used in many ways.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Techniques like this can be used in multiple rounds.

Harvard Business Review

This can be used to protect sensitive configuration files.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This can be used later for dark noise subtraction.

Stanford University

This can be used to encode a digital bit.

The Economist

This can be used to realize magnetic-controlled spin filter.

Physica B: Condensed Matter

"This can be used in virtually any field where lenses are needed.

The New York Times - Tech

"This can be used to differentiate your cancer care center from the one across town".

The New York Times

But 'Oh, it's so good for writing.' There was a sense of, 'This can be used.' ".

The New York Times - Books

This can be used for multipath mitigation.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "this can be used" with specific examples or purposes to enhance clarity and provide practical information.

Common error

Avoid overusing passive constructions like "this can be used" in your writing; active voice often makes your writing more direct and engaging. When possible, rephrase to highlight who is using it and how.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this can be used" functions as a statement of potential or capability. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that something has the ability to be employed for a specific purpose. Examples in Ludwig showcase its use across diverse fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this can be used" is a versatile and frequently encountered expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to denote the potential applicability or utility of something across varied contexts. From news articles to scientific papers, and even in instructional wikis, the phrase serves to inform the reader about the possible applications of a subject. While grammatically sound, writers should aim to complement this expression with specific examples for enhanced clarity. Related phrases include "it is applicable" and "this has utility", offering alternative ways to convey the same idea. When considering formality, it adopts a neutral tone, making it suitable for various communication styles. This phrase is very versatile and has a wide usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this has utility

Directly asserts the usefulness of the subject.

this has applications

Highlights the various practical uses.

it is applicable

Focuses on the applicability of something, differing from indicating a possibility of use.

it is available for application

Focuses on the availability for a certain use case.

this is fit for purpose

Emphasizes something meeting the requirements for intended utilization.

it's employable

Highlights the suitability for a specific purpose or task.

this is suitable for utilization

Emphasizes fitness and readiness for service or application, formal tone.

it serves a purpose

Underscores the functional benefit of something, not simply the possibility of use.

it can be implemented

Focuses on the aspect of practical application or execution.

it is adaptable

Suggests that the object is able to be modified to suit different conditions.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "this can be used" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "it is applicable", "this is suitable for utilization", or "it may be employed". These options often convey a higher degree of formality depending on the context.

What's the difference between "this can be used" and "this is used"?

"This can be used" suggests a possibility or potential for use, whereas "this is used" indicates a current or habitual practice. The former implies availability, while the latter confirms actual application.

When is it appropriate to use "this can be used" in writing?

Use "this can be used" when introducing a tool, method, or resource and explaining its potential applications or benefits. It's suitable in instructional texts, manuals, and informative articles.

What are some creative ways to use "this can be used" in a sentence?

Instead of stating plainly, "this can be used", try framing it with a specific problem or goal in mind: "To enhance efficiency, "this tool" can be used". This approach immediately highlights the value and application.