can be found

Meanings

1. 1phrasephrasal verb

   used to say that something exists or is available in a particular place or situation

   Grammar: It is a passive phrase; it does not take an object. Often followed by a place phrase or by 'in/on/at'.

   Patterns

   • can be found in something
   • can be found on something
   • can be found at a place
   • can be found + adverb (easily, commonly)

   This plant can be found in wet forests across the region.

   The information can be found on our website.

   Cheap flights can be found if you book early.

2. 2phrasephrasal verb

   used to say that something is discovered or noticed by people

   Grammar: This sense often suggests a search or a result; it can be followed by 'by' to show who finds it.

   Patterns

   • can be found by someone
   • can be found after an event

   The missing keys can be found under the sofa.

   Errors can be found by checking your work carefully.

Common combinations

can easily be found

The museum can easily be found near the main square.

can be found online

Many free courses can be found online.

can be found in nature

This mineral can be found in nature in several colors.

can be found at the bottom of a page

The terms and conditions can be found at the bottom of the page.

Synonyms and how they differ

is found

Similar meaning, but 'is found' is a simple passive without the idea of possibility; 'can be found' emphasizes that it is possible to find it.

exists

Focuses on being real or present, not on being discovered; 'can be found' often implies someone may look for it.

Word family

find verb

to discover something, often by searching

found verb

past tense and past participle of 'find'

Commonly confused: can be found or can be founded?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “can be found”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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