can be modified

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be modified" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to indicate that something has the potential to be changed or altered. For example, "This policy can be modified if needed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Production lines can be modified accordingly.

The Economist

As more facts arise, models can be modified or expanded.

The Guardian

Both can be modified to deliver forms of proportional representation.

The New Yorker

This activity can be modified for small groups or pairs.

The New York Times

The Fischer carbenes can be modified by electron-rich groups.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Verbs can be modified in two major ways.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It can be modified, both with antibiotics and with transplants.

The Economist

But there is wide variation in how many loans can be modified.

The New York Times

Nothing about it can be modified without destroying its logical structure.

The New Yorker

The new material, Dr. Cheben said, can be modified as it is developed and tested.

The New York Times - Tech

Loans can be modified to try to keep homeowners from losing their property.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be modified", ensure that it's clear what the agent of modification is, either explicitly stated or implied by the context. For example: "The software can be modified by developers" or "The recipe can be modified to suit dietary needs."

Common error

Avoid using "can be modified" excessively in contexts where the active voice would be more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "The report can be modified by the team", consider "The team can modify the report".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be modified" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the potential or possibility for something to be changed or altered. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be modified" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression indicating the potential for change. As verified by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various domains, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedic contexts. While suitable for both formal and informal communication, it carries a slightly professional tone. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the agent of modification and avoid overuse in favor of more active constructions. Related phrases such as "can be adapted" and "can be altered" offer nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context. This analysis aims to equip writers with a comprehensive understanding of "can be modified", enabling its effective and precise application in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be adapted

Emphasizes adjusting to specific conditions or purposes.

can be altered

Focuses on making a change, often minor, to something.

can be adjusted

Highlights fine-tuning or making small corrections for better performance.

can be changed

A general term for making something different.

is subject to change

Indicates that something is likely to be altered in the future.

can be revised

Suggests a more formal or thorough process of changing something.

can be transformed

Implies a significant change in form or appearance.

can be customized

Focuses on tailoring something to individual needs or preferences.

can be reformed

Indicates an improvement to some kind of system.

can be updated

Suggests bringing something current or adding new information.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be modified" to indicate that something has the ability to be changed or altered. For example, "The settings "can be customized" to fit your preferences."

What phrases are similar to "can be modified"?

Similar phrases include "can be adapted", "can be altered", or "can be adjusted". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it better to use "can be changed" instead of "can be modified"?

"Can be changed" is a more general term, while "can be modified" suggests a more specific or controlled alteration. Use "can be changed" when the alteration is broad, and "can be modified" when it involves specific adjustments or refinements.

Is "can be modified" formal or informal?

"Can be modified" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's generally preferred in more technical or official settings. In casual conversation, you might opt for simpler alternatives like "can be changed".