can be limited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be limited" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something has restrictions or constraints. Example: "The resources available for this project can be limited, so we need to plan accordingly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Access can be limited by licensing.

The Economist

Co-operation between functions can be limited.

The Economist

Parking close to campus can be limited and expensive.

Cornell University

The produce selection at the groceries can be limited.

The New York Times

It can be limited to just four gigabytes.

The New York Times - Tech

However, in a small car, rear space can be limited.

The New York Times

These interactions can be limited depending on injection/elution conditions.

Journal of Chromatography B

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Search can be limited by setting upto to desired index.

Stanford University

This is particularly important in a home office where space can be limited.

Huffington Post

Even formal biodata can be limited, John said.

Los Angeles Times

Then, the energy consummation can be limited.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be limited", clearly state what is being limited and the factors causing the limitation to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid attributing limitations to a single factor when multiple influences are at play. Provide a nuanced explanation of the various elements contributing to the restriction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be limited" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating a potential for restriction or constraint. As evidenced by Ludwig, it describes the possibility that something is subject to limitations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

30%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be limited" is a versatile and frequently used expression that denotes the possibility of restrictions or constraints. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability across diverse fields, including news, science, and academia. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: specify what is being limited and the factors causing the limitation. Alternatives such as "may be restricted" or "could be reduced" offer nuanced variations in meaning. Recognizing potential missteps, like oversimplifying the causes of limitations, can further refine your writing. With its neutral register and high frequency, "can be limited" remains a valuable tool for conveying potential constraints with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be restricted

Expresses possibility of restriction, similar to "can be limited" but with a slightly more formal tone.

might be constrained

Indicates a potential limitation or restriction, emphasizing external forces or circumstances causing the limitation.

could be reduced

Focuses on the action of reducing something, suggesting a decrease in quantity, scope, or intensity.

may become finite

Highlights the potential for something to reach a defined end or limit, emphasizing a boundary.

can be curtailed

Emphasizes the act of cutting short or restricting something, often suggesting a deliberate action.

might become scarce

Suggests a potential shortage or lack of availability, indicating a limitation due to supply.

could be narrowed

Focuses on reducing the scope or focus of something, suggesting a restriction in breadth.

may be lessened

Indicates a potential decrease in impact, intensity, or significance, suggesting a mitigation of effect.

might be minimized

Emphasizes the action of reducing something to the smallest possible amount or degree.

may be circumscribed

Highlights the act of defining the limits or boundaries of something, often in a precise manner.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be limited" to describe situations where something faces restrictions or constraints. For example, "Access to resources "can be limited" by funding."

What are some alternatives to "can be limited"?

Alternatives include "may be restricted", "could be reduced", or "might be constrained", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "can be limited" or "is limited"?

"Can be limited" implies a potential or possibility of being limited, while "is limited" suggests a current state of limitation. The choice depends on whether the limitation is a possibility or a reality.

What's the difference between "can be limited" and "can become limited"?

"Can be limited" describes an existing possibility, whereas "can become limited" describes a future potential. The latter suggests a process leading to a limitation.