we can defend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can defend" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability or capacity to protect or support a position, argument, or individual. Example: "In this debate, we can defend our stance with solid evidence and logical reasoning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We can defend better than that.

BBC

We can defend ourselves".

The New York Times

We have confidence we can defend it".

Independent

"Now we know we can defend ourselves.

The Guardian

"But at least we can defend our cantina".

The Guardian

"We can defend our case in the football bodies.

The Guardian - Sport

What does the research suggest about how we can defend ourselves against the overconfident?

University of California, Berkeley

We can defend our vital interests in areas like financial services.

The New York Times

Klopp reflected that this had not been a "perfect performance because we can defend better".

Independent

We are talking about safe zones, so we can defend ourselves".

The Guardian

"At least they should give us all guns, so we can defend ourselves," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can defend" to express the ability to protect, support, or justify a position, argument, or entity. Be specific about what "we" refers to and what is being defended to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "we can defend" in overly broad contexts without specifying the subject and object. For instance, instead of saying "we can defend our values", specify which values you're referring to and how they can be defended to make your statement more impactful and less vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can defend" primarily functions as a statement of capability or potential. It indicates that a group ("we") possesses the ability or resources to protect, support, or justify something. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we can defend" is a versatile phrase used to express the ability to protect, justify, or support something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It is frequently found in news and media, academic writings, and scientific publications. While generally neutral in tone, the specific context can influence the formality. For clarity, it is best practice to specify what "we" are defending. Related phrases include "we are able to defend" and "we can protect", offering varied nuances for similar communicative purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are able to defend

Replaces the contraction "can" with the expanded form "are able to", offering a slightly more formal tone.

we have the capacity to defend

Substitutes "can" with "have the capacity to", emphasizing capability and potential.

we possess the means to defend

Replaces "can" with "possess the means to", highlighting the resources or tools available for defense.

we are in a position to defend

Indicates readiness or preparedness to defend, suggesting a strategic advantage.

we are equipped to defend

Focuses on having the necessary equipment or training to defend effectively.

we are prepared to defend

Emphasizes the state of readiness and willingness to defend.

we are ready to defend

Similar to 'prepared to defend', but slightly less formal and more immediate.

we are set to defend

Implies a planned or scheduled defense, suggesting anticipation and organization.

we intend to defend

Highlights the intention or commitment to defend, regardless of current capabilities.

we plan to defend

Indicates a future action of defending, suggesting a strategy or course of action.

FAQs

How can I use "we can defend" in a sentence?

Use "we can defend" to express the ability to protect or justify something. For example, "We can defend our position with solid evidence" or "We can defend our country against any threat".

What are some alternatives to "we can defend"?

You can use alternatives such as "we are able to defend", "we can protect", or "we can justify", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "we can defend" in formal writing?

While "we can defend" is grammatically correct, consider the formality of your context. In some cases, more formal alternatives like "we are prepared to defend" or "we are capable of defending" might be more suitable, particularly in academic or professional settings.

What's the difference between "we can defend" and "we must defend"?

"We can defend" indicates the ability or capacity to defend, whereas "we must defend" expresses an obligation or necessity to defend. The former focuses on capability, while the latter emphasizes duty or requirement.