can be converted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'can be converted' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to indicate that an object or process can be changed from one form to another. For example, "This chemical compound can be converted into a fuel source."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

DHEAS can be converted into DHEA, itself convertible to androstenedione.

British Journal of Cancer

A den can be converted to a second bedroom.

The New York Times

Both cribs can be converted to toddler beds.

The New York Times

Even coal can be converted into liquid fuel.

The New Yorker

One composition process can be converted to the other.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This pressure differential can be converted to a flow rate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"If it's a studio apartment that can be converted into a one-bedroom apartment, then it should be described as a studio apartment that can be converted.

The New York Times

A Costly Disease Everything you eat sooner or later can be converted into glucose.

The New York Times - Health

Closed bases can be converted to private sector investment for new industry, housing, schools or parks.

The New York Times

The W. C. Striegel pipeline company supplied raw materials that can be converted into percussion instruments.

The New Yorker

AMENITIES: An attic over the bedrooms that can be converted into a third bedroom.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be converted", ensure the context clearly identifies both the initial state and the resulting state after conversion. For example, "Energy can be converted into mass" clarifies the transformation.

Common error

Avoid using "can be converted" without specifying what it can be converted to. This lack of clarity can confuse the reader. Always provide the target of the conversion for effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be converted" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating the potential for something to undergo a transformation. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples show it used in various contexts, expressing the possibility of changing an object or process from one state to another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

42%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be converted" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to denote the possibility of transformation from one state to another. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for diverse contexts ranging from scientific discussions to news reports. The phrase sees frequent use across news and media, science, and encyclopedic sources. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: always specify the target of the conversion to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "is convertible", "may be transformed", or "could be changed" offer subtle variations in meaning, allowing for precise expression. Mastering the use of "can be converted" will enhance your ability to communicate the potential for change effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is convertible

A more concise, adjective form that directly describes the capability of being converted.

may be transformed

Emphasizes the possibility of transformation, similar to "can be converted".

could be changed

Indicates a potential for alteration, suggesting a slightly lower degree of certainty.

is able to be adapted

Highlights the capacity for adaptation, focusing on fitting a new purpose.

can be adapted

Highlights the flexibility of something to be changed to suit different conditions.

is susceptible to transformation

Suggests vulnerability to change, implying an external force.

has the potential to become

Focuses on the future state after conversion, highlighting potential.

is subject to modification

Implies that changes are likely to occur, possibly due to external factors.

might be altered

Expresses uncertainty about whether the change will happen.

can morph into

Suggests a more dramatic or complete change in form or character.

FAQs

How do I use "can be converted" in a sentence?

Use "can be converted" to indicate the possibility of transforming something from one form or state into another. For instance, "A studio apartment "can be converted" into a one-bedroom apartment".

What are some alternatives to "can be converted"?

You can use alternatives such as "may be transformed", "could be changed", or "is able to be adapted" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "can convert" instead of "can be converted"?

While "can convert" is grammatically correct, it implies an active voice where something has the ability to perform the conversion. "Can be converted" uses a passive voice, indicating something is able to undergo a conversion. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the agent or the object of the conversion.

What is the difference between "can be converted" and "is convertible"?

"Can be converted" is a verb phrase that describes the process or possibility of conversion. "Is convertible" is an adjective that describes a quality of something, indicating its inherent ability to be converted. For example, "This bond is convertible into stock", using the adjective form.