can be altered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'can be altered' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is able to be changed. For example, "The draft contract can be altered if needed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That can be altered.

Cornell University

"It can be altered by neglect.

Independent

Extra material was provided so the garments can be altered.

The New Yorker

Choices can be altered for your own purposes.

The Washington Post

Hydrologic systems can be altered by anthropogenic and climatic influences.

Journal of Hydrology

The adaptational paradigm for structure can be altered.

The Evolution of Adaptive Systems

The genotype of a cell can be altered by mutations.

Bioprocess Engineering Kinetics, Sustainability, and Reactor Design

The sound quality can be altered through a few settings.

The New York Times

In the same way, a building can be altered without violating its essential identity.

The New York Times

"The body now can be altered, changed and traded on the market".

The New York Times

However, the schedule can be altered by agreement of management and the union.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be altered" when you want to clearly state the possibility of making changes to something, implying that modification is within the realm of possibility.

Common error

While "can be altered" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider using active voice where appropriate for a more direct and engaging tone. For example, instead of "The plan can be altered," try "We can alter the plan."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be altered" functions as a passive construction indicating the potential for change or modification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be altered" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase that conveys the potential for change or modification. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correctness and widespread use. It’s most frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of the passive voice and consider active voice alternatives for a more engaging tone where appropriate. The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal writing, making it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be modified

Indicates the possibility of making changes, with a focus on improvements or adjustments.

can be changed

A general term for the ability to become different, lacking specifics on the type of change.

can be adjusted

Suggests fine-tuning or making small corrections to achieve a desired outcome.

can be revised

Implies a more formal or thorough process of making changes, often to correct errors or update information.

can be amended

Refers to formal changes, usually in legal or official documents.

can be transformed

Indicates a significant or dramatic change in form or appearance.

can be customized

Focuses on tailoring something to individual preferences or needs.

can be adapted

Highlights the ability to change in order to suit new conditions or purposes.

can be influenced

Suggests that external factors can cause a change, rather than direct modification.

is subject to change

Highlights that there are no garanties that something remains as is.

FAQs

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

Use "can be altered" to indicate that something is capable of being changed or modified. For example, "The terms of the agreement "can be amended" if both parties agree."

What is a more formal way to say "can be altered"?

In formal contexts, you might use "can be modified" or "can be revised" as alternatives to "can be altered", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "can be altered"?

The phrase "can be altered" is appropriate when describing something that has the potential for change or adjustment, whether it's a plan, a design, or a set of rules.

Is "can be altered" interchangeable with "can be changed"?

While similar, "can be altered" suggests a more controlled or specific type of change than the more general "can be changed". Choose the phrase that best fits the context of the modification being discussed.