can be overridden

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be overridden" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts where a setting, rule, or function can be changed or replaced by another setting, rule, or function. Example: "The default settings can be overridden by the user to customize their experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It can be overridden by the mind.

The New Yorker

Term Dates can be overridden by Course Dates.

Yale University

General preferences can be overridden by a local file.

University of California, Berkeley

This can be overridden with the -e option.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Such prejudices can be overridden after voters actually see female leaders in action.

The New York Times

But all this can be overridden if the naming seems important enough.

The New York Times - Books

In Java, all methods are virtual by default and can be overridden by a derived class.

C# For Java Programmers

Any rulings by the Chief Justice can be overridden by a majority of the senators.

The New York Times

But even a gene that provides this much protection can be overridden by environmental pressures.

Nature

But educators note that standards and textbooks can be overridden by teachers who themselves question evolution.

The New York Times

The app, which costs $2 per month per phone, can be overridden with two button pushes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be overridden", ensure the context clearly indicates what is doing the overriding. This improves clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be overridden" without clearly specifying what the subject is and what can override it. For example, instead of saying 'The settings can be overridden', specify 'The default settings can be overridden by user preferences'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be overridden" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating the possibility of something being superseded or having its effect negated. Ludwig examples show its common use in describing how default settings or rules can be changed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

22%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be overridden" is a versatile passive construction used to describe a situation where a default setting, rule, or process is subject to change or negation. As affirmed by Ludwig, its grammatical correctness and wide adoption across diverse sources, including news, academia, and scientific literature, reinforce its validity. When using "can be overridden", ensure clarity by explicitly stating what is doing the overriding. Consider alternatives like "can be superseded" or "can be negated" to add nuance. By understanding its function, purpose, and typical contexts, you can effectively incorporate "can be overridden" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be superseded

Focuses on the act of replacing something, especially if less important, less powerful, or less modern.

can be superseded

Implies a displacement or annulment by something following in time.

can be negated

Highlights the possibility of something being nullified or made ineffective.

can be invalidated

Suggests that something can be proven wrong or without legal force.

can be nullified

Emphasizes the action of making something legally void or inoperative.

can be countermanded

Focuses on the reversal of an order or decision.

can be repealed

Indicates the revocation or annulment of a law or act of parliament.

can be set aside

Suggests that something can be disregarded or not taken into account.

can be circumvented

Implies finding a way around rules or restrictions.

can be undone

Highlights the possibility of reversing an action or its consequences.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be overridden" to indicate that a default setting, rule, or behavior is not absolute and can be changed. For instance: "The initial configuration "can be overridden" by the administrator."

What's a good alternative to "can be overridden"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include phrases like "can be superseded", "can be negated", or "can be circumvented".

Is it correct to say "can be overwrite" instead of "can be overridden"?

No, "can be overwrite" is grammatically incorrect. The correct passive form is ""can be overridden"", which uses the past participle of the verb 'override'.

What is the difference between "can be overridden" and "must be overridden"?

"Can be overridden" implies that it is optional to change something, while "must be overridden" indicates that it is necessary to change or replace something in order to achieve a desired outcome.