can be controlled

USAGE SUMMARY

'can be controlled' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is able to be managed, regulated, or restrained. For example, "The water temperature can be controlled with the thermostat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It can be controlled via Kinect or a game controller.

Wikipedia

But other risk factors can be controlled.

The New York Times

Each wing can be controlled independently.

The New York Times - Science

They can be controlled by spraying.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But it can be controlled.

The New York Times

Seizures can be controlled in most patients.

The New York Times - Health

Pest infestation can be controlled without resort to dangerous chemicals.

The New York Times

The persona can be controlled, but the anima often cannot.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Neither of those areas can be controlled," Moorlach pointed out.

The New Yorker

And it can be controlled by reducing the drugs.

The New York Times

It is establishing a network that can be controlled.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be controlled", clearly specify what mechanisms or methods enable the control. This adds clarity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "can be controlled" without providing context on the limitations or potential challenges involved. Vague statements can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be controlled" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating the possibility of managing or regulating something. Ludwig AI's examples show its use across various contexts to denote the ability to influence or direct an object or process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

45%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be controlled" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to express the possibility of managing, regulating, or restraining something. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is common in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic content. To use it effectively, specify the mechanisms enabling control and avoid overgeneralizations. While alternatives like "is manageable" or "is regulated" exist, "can be controlled" remains a clear and widely understood way to convey the potential for influence or direction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is manageable

Replaces the passive construction with a more direct adjective.

is regulated

Focuses on the aspect of regulation rather than general control.

is governed

Emphasizes the aspect of being ruled or directed.

is brought under control

Suggests a process of gaining control.

is subject to control

Highlights the fact that something is under the authority of control.

is restrained

Highlights the act of holding something back or keeping it in check.

is kept in check

Emphasizes maintaining something within desired limits.

can be directed

Emphasizes the aspect of guiding or steering something.

can be influenced

Shifts the focus to affecting something rather than directly controlling it.

can be handled

Suggests the ability to deal with something effectively.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be controlled" to indicate that something is able to be managed, regulated, or restrained. For example, "The temperature "can be controlled" with a thermostat".

What are some alternatives to "can be controlled"?

Alternatives include "is manageable", "is regulated", or "is governed", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "can be controlled"?

While "can be controlled" is passive, its appropriateness depends on the context. Use the active voice when you want to emphasize the actor doing the controlling. For example, instead of saying 'The system "can be controlled" remotely', you could say 'Users can control the system remotely'.

What does it mean when something "can be controlled"?

It signifies that there are mechanisms, methods, or processes in place that allow for the management, regulation, or restraint of that thing. The level of control can vary depending on the context.