Proper usage of "Can be said to be"
When is the proper time, if any, to use the phrase "Can be said to be"?
My wife and I had an arguement whether or not it was grammatically correct, or if it was even proper english.
This is the context upon which I attempted to use the phrase:
"If many people have positive judgments about me, I can be said to be surrounded by friends"
Help is appreciated.
Minsoo
New member
1 answer 
There is nothing grammatically wrong with "can be said to be." However, it is styllistically wordy and represents passive "waffling" by the speaker/writer. There are many more concise and direct ways of saying the same thing. For instance:
The Giants can said to be World Series Champions --> The Giants are World Series Champions.
The sun can be said to rise in the East --> Some say the sun rises in the East.
I hope this helps.
| link |
answered Oct 31 '12 at 18:55
Jeff Pribyl
Grammarly Fellow
|
Had to throw in the Giants, didn't you?
Yeah, I am watching the parade on TV. Over a million people lined Market Street and filled Civic Center Plaza.
I rooted for them. Damn the Dodgers anyway.
add comment
