can be adjusted

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be adjusted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to imply that a certain condition can be changed or modified in some way. For example: "The temperature of the water can be adjusted to suit your preference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The speed can be adjusted.

The New York Times - Tech

The acoustics can be adjusted.

The New York Times - Arts

Everything can be adjusted or reworked.

The New York Times

But both features can be adjusted.

Harvard Business Review

Loans can be adjusted throughout the semester.

Harvard University

(Dishes can be adjusted to suit small parties).

The New York Times

Such sights can be adjusted for windage and elevation.

The New York Times - Sports

Both models can be adjusted for those factors.

The New York Times - Health

The total number of MPs can be adjusted to compensate.

The Guardian - Opinion

As many as can be adjusted on your television set.

The New York Times - Arts

The holographic flame can be adjusted by remote control.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be adjusted" when you want to emphasize the possibility of modifying something to better suit a specific situation or requirement. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While "can be adjusted" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound less direct. Consider whether an active voice construction would be more impactful. For example, instead of "The settings can be adjusted by the user", try "The user can adjust the settings".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be adjusted" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing the possibility or ability to modify something. Ludwig confirms its validity and widespread use. It indicates that a certain parameter, setting, or aspect is not fixed and can be altered as needed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be adjusted" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate the modifiability of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. It serves the purpose of informing the audience about the flexibility and adaptability of a specific element, conveying control and customization. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, careful consideration should be given to avoid overuse of the passive voice. Alternatives such as "can be modified" or "is adaptable" may offer a more direct or nuanced expression depending on the specific context. The phrase's frequent occurrence across various authoritative sources underscores its reliability and widespread acceptance in English writing. In conclusion, “can be adjusted” is an effective and appropriate choice when you wish to convey that something is not fixed and can be altered as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be modified

Similar to "can be adjusted" but uses a different verb.

is adaptable

This is a simpler, more direct way of expressing the concept of adjustability.

is modifiable

Focuses on the possibility of making changes.

may be altered

More formal, emphasizing the potential for change.

allows for modification

This alternative uses a different structure, focusing on allowance and modification.

is subject to change

Highlights the possibility of future modifications.

can be revised

Implies a more structured or formal adjustment process.

is customizable

Focuses on tailoring something to individual preferences.

can be fine-tuned

Suggests precise or delicate adjustments.

is flexible

Emphasizes the inherent ability to adapt to different conditions.

FAQs

How to use "can be adjusted" in a sentence?

You can use "can be adjusted" to indicate that something is modifiable. For instance, "The volume "can be adjusted" to your liking" or "The schedule "can be adjusted" to accommodate your needs".

What can I say instead of "can be adjusted"?

Alternatives include "can be modified", "is adaptable", or "is customizable", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "can be adjusted" or "can be adapted"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but ""can be adjusted"" implies a fine-tuning or calibration, while "can be adapted" suggests a more significant change to fit a new purpose or situation.

What's the difference between "can be adjusted" and "can be configured"?

"Can be adjusted" generally refers to making minor changes to something already in place. "Can be configured" often implies setting up something from scratch or choosing from a range of pre-set options.