can be inscribed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be inscribed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is capable of being engraved, written, or marked onto a surface. Example: "The ring is made of gold and can be inscribed with a personal message."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

The monument will be built of 67,640 concrete blocks, each of which can be inscribed, and will be sold.

The New Yorker

The shorter the wavelength, the finer the features that can be inscribed and the less time the electrons will need to travel through a circuit.

The New York Times - Tech

Then he added mysteriously: "Of course, on the list of subscribers that is to remain outside of the cornerstone, the names only of those who shall have paid can be inscribed".

The New York Times

He doesn't believe in a blank slate on which anything can be inscribed; he believes in the power of the chalk-holding hand to change the sum on the blackboard.

The New Yorker

And what arises from both experiences is a general principle that can be inscribed above the portals of studios and the doors of directors' offices: the facts don't speak for themselves.

The New Yorker

In his illustration of this theory, the so-called Vitruvian Man, Leonardo demonstrated that when a man places his feet firmly on the ground and stretches out his arms, he can be contained within the four lines of a square, but when in a spread-eagle position, he can be inscribed in a circle.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Almost everything about graphene begs to be inscribed in legend.

The Guardian

Religion cannot be inscribed on such a list," Elias Sanbar said.

The Guardian

Soon, De Guzman's name will be inscribed with them.

Los Angeles Times

No sort of lettering may be inscribed on the flag.

Wikipedia

May you be inscribed in the Book of Life.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be inscribed", ensure the subject clearly identifies what object or surface is capable of receiving the inscription. For example, "The monument can be inscribed with names of the fallen."

Common error

Avoid using "can be inscribed" without specifying what is being inscribed or the method of inscription. Be specific about the content and process for clarity. For example, instead of "Messages can be inscribed", write "Messages can be inscribed using a laser engraver".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be inscribed" functions as a passive construction indicating the potential for an object or surface to receive an inscription. As shown by Ludwig, it describes the capability of being marked or engraved, whether physically or symbolically.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be inscribed" is grammatically correct and serves to describe the potential of an object or surface to be engraved or written upon. Ludwig AI analysis shows it is frequently encountered in academic, scientific, and news-related contexts. While versatile, ensure the subject is clear to avoid ambiguity, which Ludwig AI confirm as being the most common error when employing it. Alternatives such as "can be engraved" and "is suitable for engraving" offer similar meanings, adapting the tone and emphasis slightly. Usage is generally straightforward, making it a useful addition to one's vocabulary for expressing capabilities of personalization or record-keeping. This term it is an appropriate and clear way to indicate an object's suitability for receiving inscriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be engraved

This alternative replaces "inscribed" with "engraved", focusing on the physical act of carving or etching.

is suitable for engraving

This alternative uses a more descriptive approach emphasizing the suitability for the action.

is able to be etched

This changes "inscribed" to "etched" and uses "able to be" for a slightly different tone.

can be etched

This shortens the original phrase, replacing "inscribed" with "etched".

can be marked

This alternative uses a broader term, "marked", to encompass various methods of making a visible impression.

is suitable for marking

This emphasizes the appropriateness of the surface for receiving marks or inscriptions.

allows for inscription

This alternative focuses on the object permitting the act of inscription.

permits engraving

This uses a more formal tone and emphasizes the allowance of the engraving process.

is open to inscription

This alternative uses "open to" to describe the potential for inscription.

accepts engraving

This alternative highlights the surface's ability to receive engraving without damage or distortion.

FAQs

What does "can be inscribed" mean?

The phrase "can be inscribed" means that something is capable of having words, symbols, or designs engraved, written, or marked onto its surface. It indicates the possibility of adding a lasting inscription.

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

Use "can be inscribed" to describe an object or surface that is suitable for engraving or writing. For example, "The trophy "can be inscribed" with the winner's name" or "The heart shaped locket "can be inscribed" with a short message."

What are some alternatives to "can be inscribed"?

Alternatives to "can be inscribed" include "can be engraved", "is suitable for engraving", or "is able to be etched". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "can be inscribed"?

"Can be inscribed" is appropriate in contexts where you want to indicate that an object or surface has the physical properties suitable for receiving an inscription. This is often used when discussing commemorative items, awards, or personalized gifts.