can be cumbersome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be cumbersome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unwieldy, difficult to manage, or inconvenient in a particular context. Example: "While the process is effective, it can be cumbersome for new users to navigate the system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Occasionally, the security can be cumbersome.

The New York Times

Digging for treasure legally can be cumbersome.

The New Yorker

SAN FRANCISCO — Paying for things online can be cumbersome.

The New York Times

Car players are available but can be cumbersome to install.

The New York Times - Tech

But the checklist can be cumbersome and time-consuming.

The New York Times

The dances are energetic, and the costumes can be cumbersome.

The New York Times - Arts

The drawback is that managing those keys can be cumbersome.

The New York Times - Tech

That can be cumbersome but is necessary, he says.

The New York Times

That can be cumbersome, especially in Italy, say fund managers.

The Economist

Photograph by Rafal Milach for The New Yorker Digging for treasure legally can be cumbersome.

The New Yorker

Even when made of paper, that can be cumbersome and heavy.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be cumbersome", clearly explain why the subject is cumbersome to ensure the reader understands the specific challenges involved.

Common error

Avoid using "can be cumbersome" too frequently in the same piece of writing. Variety in language keeps the writing engaging and prevents it from sounding repetitive. Replace it with synonyms like "unwieldy" or "challenging" to add nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be cumbersome" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically acting as a predicate adjective. It describes a noun or process as being difficult to handle or manage due to its complexity or inconvenience. Ludwig AI validates its widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

39%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be cumbersome" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something that is unwieldy, inconvenient, or difficult to manage. As Ludwig AI confirms, its prevalence across news, media, and scientific publications indicates its broad applicability. While appropriate for most contexts, writers should consider more formal synonyms like "unwieldy" or "laborious" for highly formal settings. When using this phrase, ensure the reasons for something being cumbersome are clear to the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be unwieldy

Replaces "cumbersome" with "unwieldy", emphasizing the difficulty in handling or managing something.

can be burdensome

Substitutes "cumbersome" with "burdensome", highlighting the onerous or oppressive nature of something.

can be troublesome

Replaces "cumbersome" with "troublesome", suggesting it causes problems or difficulties.

can be awkward

Substitutes "cumbersome" with "awkward", focusing on the lack of ease or grace in dealing with something.

can be complicated

Replaces "cumbersome" with "complicated", emphasizing the complex and intricate nature of something.

can be laborious

Substitutes "cumbersome" with "laborious", highlighting the effort and time required.

can be challenging

Replaces "cumbersome" with "challenging", focusing on the difficulty that requires effort and skill to overcome.

can be taxing

Substitutes "cumbersome" with "taxing", emphasizing the draining or exhausting effect of something.

can be a hassle

Replaces "cumbersome" with "a hassle", making it more informal and suggesting inconvenience.

can be a pain

Substitutes "cumbersome" with "a pain", an informal way to express something is annoying and difficult.

FAQs

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

Use "can be cumbersome" to describe something that is difficult, unwieldy, or inconvenient. For example, "The process of manually updating the database "can be cumbersome", especially with large datasets."

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

You can use alternatives like "can be unwieldy", "can be burdensome", or "can be challenging depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "can be cumbersome" in formal writing?

Yes, "can be cumbersome" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider the audience. In highly formal contexts, synonyms like "can be laborious" or "can be unwieldy" might be preferred.

What's the difference between "can be cumbersome" and "can be difficult"?

"Can be difficult" is a broader term. "Can be cumbersome" specifically implies that something is unwieldy or inconvenient to handle, whereas "can be difficult" might refer to the complexity, skill required, or other challenges.