be serviceable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be serviceable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is useful or functional, often in a practical context. Example: "The old tools may not be pretty, but they still be serviceable for basic repairs around the house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The service oriented architecture of grid computing has been thoughtfully engineered to achieve a service level virtualization: not only should a grid be a virtual machine (also known as a virtual organization, VO) of unbounded computational power and storage capacity, but also should the virtual machine be serviceable in all circumstances independent from serviceability of any of its component.

Information Security Technical Report

In order to satisfy the serviceability limit states, a concrete structure must be serviceable and perform its intended function throughout its working life.

Procedia Engineering

"But the damage is repairable and the bridge can be serviceable with no problems".

The New York Times - Science

At a minimum, they should be serviceable, pleasurable and, if possible, not too far in quality from their superior siblings.

The New York Times

It told bidders only that the munitions must be "serviceable and issuable to all units without qualification".

The New York Times

Will American Airlines' new aeroplanes be serviceable for thirty years or should they be depreciated over just twenty?

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Service was serviceable, if inconsistent.

Huffington Post

Robert's is serviceable.

The New York Times - Magazine

Otherwise, the site is serviceable and clean.

The New York Times

At its best, his prose is serviceable.

The New York Times - Books

The food is serviceable, sometimes much better.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the lifespan or potential of equipment, use "be serviceable" to indicate that it can be maintained and repaired over a significant period. For instance, "Engineers expect the bridge to "be serviceable" for at least 50 years with proper maintenance".

Common error

Avoid using "be serviceable" in informal writing where simpler alternatives like "be usable" or "work" would be more appropriate. While technically correct, it can sound stilted or overly technical in casual communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be serviceable" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing the condition or state of a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in expressing the ability of something to provide service or function effectively. The examples show it modifying a range of subjects, from infrastructure to personal skills.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be serviceable" is a versatile expression used to describe something that is functional, usable, and potentially repairable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly found across various reliable sources, particularly in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While simpler alternatives exist, "be serviceable" offers a nuanced meaning that emphasizes both current usability and potential for future maintenance. Understanding its usage patterns and appropriate contexts can enhance clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be usable

Focuses more directly on the capacity for use, omitting the implication of repair or maintenance.

be functional

Emphasizes the operational aspect, suggesting that something is working as intended.

be in working order

Highlights the condition of being operational and ready for use.

be fit for purpose

Implies suitability for a specific task or goal.

be in good condition

Focuses on the state of repair and maintenance of something.

be ready for use

Emphasizes the immediate availability and preparedness for utilization.

be viable

Suggests that something is capable of functioning effectively or surviving.

be maintainable

Highlights the ease with which something can be kept in good working order.

be up to standard

Suggests the item meets the required expectations.

be adequate

Implies the state of being good enough for a particular need or purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "be serviceable" in a sentence?

Use "be serviceable" to indicate that something is functional, usable, and possibly repairable. For example: "The old equipment may still "be usable" if properly maintained, so it can "be functional"."

What's a simple alternative to "be serviceable"?

Simpler alternatives include "be usable", "be functional", or simply "work", depending on the context. These options are less formal and more common in everyday conversation.

What does it mean when something is described as "serviceable"?

When something is described as "serviceable", it means that it is in a condition to be used or repaired for use. It implies that the item is not only currently working but also has the potential for continued use through maintenance or repairs.

How does "be serviceable" differ from "be usable"?

"Be serviceable" implies that something is not only usable but also capable of being maintained or repaired for future use. "Be usable", on the other hand, simply means that something is currently in a condition to be used, without necessarily implying long-term maintainability.