can be approximated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be approximated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing estimates or near values in various contexts, such as mathematics, science, or statistics. Example: "The total cost of the project can be approximated to around $10,000 based on the initial estimates."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They can be approximated as straight lines, simplifying the method.

Mechatronics Principles and Applications

The perturbed eigenpairs can be approximated using eigenpair derivatives.

Journal of Computational Physics

Both cases can be approximated by a gamma function.

Carbon

To decrease computation time, the distance can be approximated using en equirectangular projection.

Cornell University

We show that every Pareto optimal point can be approximated by a memoryless strategy, for all.

University of California, Berkeley

Not all such numbers are rational, but every one can be approximated arbitrarily closely by a rational number.

Britannica

I don't think a particular case can be approximated to tar or judge an entire society.

The New York Times

can be approximated by (6).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

When comparing orders of magnitude, actual distances can be approximated.

BBC

Then (3) can be approximated by (6).

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

can be approximated using sample averages.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be approximated" in technical writing, clearly state the assumptions and conditions under which the approximation is valid to maintain transparency and rigor.

Common error

Avoid implying a higher degree of precision than justified. Instead of saying "the result can be approximated to 5 decimal places", specify a reasonable range or margin of error to reflect the inherent uncertainty in the approximation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be approximated" functions as a passive construction indicating that something is capable of being estimated or represented with a degree of accuracy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

Academia

15%

News & Media

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be approximated" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that indicates an estimate or simplified representation is acceptable. According to Ludwig AI, this passive construction is suitable across various contexts, particularly in scientific, academic and technical domains. It's crucial to provide context and limitations when employing approximations, ensuring clarity and preventing overstatements of accuracy. By using synonyms like "can be estimated" or "can be modeled", you can tailor your language to best suit the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be estimated

Focuses on the process of finding an approximate value, emphasizing the act of estimation.

can be estimated roughly

Adds an element of imprecision, suggesting a less accurate estimation.

is approximately equivalent

Emphasizes near equality or similarity between two values or concepts.

can be modeled

Suggests creating a representation to mimic the behavior or characteristics of something.

can be represented

Implies symbolizing or depicting something in a simplified manner.

can be simplified

Highlights the act of making something less complex or easier to understand.

can be idealized

Suggests a process of creating a perfect or near-perfect representation, which may not be entirely realistic.

can be assessed

Focuses on evaluating or judging the value or quality in an approximate way.

can be reckoned

Indicates calculating or estimating a value, often with a degree of uncertainty.

can be taken as

Implies considering a value as a reasonable substitute or equivalent.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be approximated" to indicate that a value or result is not exact but close enough for a particular purpose. For example, "The area of the irregular shape can be approximated using geometric formulas."

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

You can use alternatives like "can be estimated", "can be modeled", or "can be represented" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "can be approximated" or "is approximately equal to"?

The choice depends on the context. "Can be approximated" emphasizes the process of approximation, while "is approximately equal to" focuses on the relationship between two values. Both are valid and often interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "can be approximated" in scientific writing?

It is appropriate when you're using a simplified model or calculation that provides a reasonable estimate, rather than an exact solution. Always state the limitations of the "approximation" and the conditions under which it holds.