be compatible with

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "be compatible with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe how two or more things are able to work together without problems or restrictions. For example, "These two programs are compatible with each other, allowing them to be used together without any issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That could be compatible with cabinet government and collective responsibility.

The Guardian - Opinion

Dance music has proved to be compatible with nearly anyone.

The New Yorker

But what they create should be compatible with what's there".

The New York Times

It can be compatible with further arms reductions.

The New York Times

It will be compatible with existing smartphones, tablets and computers.

The Economist

Mr. Morgan said the software would soon be compatible with Netscape Navigator.

The New York Times - Tech

This is not seen to be compatible with a process of reconciliation.

The Guardian

"Whatever I choose this year must be compatible with all my interests".

The Guardian - Sport

Microsoft now says it plans for Passport to be compatible with authentication software from other suppliers.

The New York Times

If it reaches the market, the format is supposed to be compatible with Wi-Fi.

The New York Times

"If Russian clubs don't use state money, they will be compatible" with the rules, he explained.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical specifications, use "be compatible with" to clearly state which systems or devices can work together. For example: "This software is designed to be compatible with both Windows and MacOS."

Common error

Avoid using "be compatible with" when you actually mean "be suitable for". Compatibility implies the ability to function together, while suitability implies appropriateness for a specific purpose. For example, say "This phone is suitable for beginners", not "This phone is compatible with beginners".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be compatible with" functions primarily as a predicate adjective, describing the ability of one thing to coexist or work effectively with another. This is reinforced by Ludwig AI's assessment of the phrase as grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

19%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be compatible with" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that two or more things can coexist or work together effectively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears frequently in diverse contexts such as news, science and formal business settings, signifying its broad applicability. When writing, ensure you distinguish between compatibility and suitability, using the phrase appropriately to describe functional relationships. For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "be in accordance with" or "be consistent with".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be aligned with

Focuses on the arrangement or positioning of things to work together effectively.

be consistent with

This alternative emphasizes the logical coherence or alignment between different elements.

be well-matched with

Highlights the harmonious combination or pairing of two things.

be in harmony with

This alternative highlights the aspect of agreement or concord between two or more things.

be integrated with

Focuses on the seamless incorporation or blending of different elements into a unified whole.

be in accordance with

Emphasizes conformity or compliance with a standard or rule.

be suited to

Focuses on the appropriateness or fitness of one thing for another.

be congruous with

Highlights the similarity and agreement between different elements.

be attuned to

Emphasizes a state of responsiveness or sensitivity to something else.

be adaptable to

Stresses the ability to adjust or modify to fit different conditions or requirements.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be compatible with" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "be in accordance with" or "be consistent with" which convey a similar meaning with increased formality.

What is the difference between "be compatible with" and "be compliant with"?

"Be compatible with" indicates the ability to function together, while "be compliant with" suggests adherence to a specific standard or regulation. For example, a software might "be compatible with" an operating system, but "be compliant with" industry security standards.

When is it appropriate to use "be compatible with" in a sentence?

Use "be compatible with" when you want to express that two or more things can coexist or work together without issues or conflicts. For instance, "This new app is designed to be compatible with older smartphones".

Are there any synonyms for "be compatible with" that emphasize agreement or alignment?

Yes, alternatives such as "be aligned with" or "be in harmony with" can be used to emphasize the sense of agreement or harmonious coexistence.