can be dropped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be dropped" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is optional or can be omitted without affecting the overall meaning or function. Example: "In this sentence, the subject can be dropped if the context is clear."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Canned goods can be dropped off at The Crofoot starting now until tickets sell out.

Huffington Post

It can be dropped and banged around.

The New York Times

A tactic adopted today can be dropped tomorrow.

The Economist

Bits of background can be dropped in later.

The Guardian - Books

The athletes sign contracts for four fights but can be dropped at any time.

The New York Times - Sports

If you don't perform consistently there's a chance you can be dropped".

Independent

"If you don't play well for one or two games, then you can be dropped.

Independent

An AUV, by contrast, can be dropped into the ocean and left to fend for itself.

The Economist

Athletic scholarships are one-year commitments, so a player who does not perform can be dropped.

The New York Times - Sports

This month, it added locations where money can be dropped off.

The New York Times

There are other applause lines, the kind that can be dropped in anywhere in a speech.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In less formal contexts, consider alternative phrases that maintain clarity but sound more conversational. For example, "can be omitted".

Common error

While "can be dropped" is grammatically correct, it may sound too informal in certain academic or professional settings. Opt for more precise alternatives like "can be excluded" or "is not required" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be dropped" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something is able to be removed or omitted. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form. This implies the dispensability of a certain element without affecting the overall meaning or functionality, as demonstrated in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be dropped" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote that something is optional or unnecessary. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It appears most commonly in scientific and news-related contexts, reflecting its application in simplifying explanations or processes. While generally neutral in register, alternative phrases like "can be omitted" or "can be excluded" may be more appropriate in formal settings. When using "can be dropped", ensure clarity regarding the conditions under which the element can be removed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be omitted

Focuses on the act of leaving something out, similar to dropping it.

can be removed

Emphasizes the act of taking something away, suggesting a more deliberate action.

can be excluded

Highlights that something is being kept out, implying a selection process.

can be dispensed with

Suggests that something is not essential and can be done without.

is not required

States that something is unnecessary.

is unnecessary

Directly states something is not needed.

is expendable

Implies something is not valuable or essential.

can be disregarded

Indicates something can be ignored.

can be waived

Suggests a rule or requirement can be set aside.

is not obligatory

States that something is not mandatory.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be dropped" indicates that something is optional or unnecessary in a given context. For example, "In this simplified version, several assumptions "can be dropped"".

What are some alternatives to "can be dropped"?

You can use alternatives like "can be omitted", "can be removed", or "is not required depending on the context.

Is it better to say "can be dropped" or "may be dropped"?

Both "can be dropped" and "may be dropped" are grammatically correct, but "can be dropped" suggests a possibility or allowance, while "may be dropped" implies permission or a slightly higher degree of uncertainty. Choose the phrase that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

Which sounds more formal, "can be dropped" or "can be excluded"?

"Can be excluded" typically sounds more formal than "can be dropped". In formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts, "can be excluded" is often preferred for its precision and tone.