can be reduced

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be reduced" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are talking about something that can be made smaller, shorter, or less in amount. For example: "The amount of waste produced by the factory can be reduced by implementing a better recycling program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it can be reduced.

The Economist

Some of the danger can be reduced.

The New York Times

With HVDC, conversions can be reduced.

The New York Times

Even stress during pregnancy can be reduced.

The Economist

Only the last can be reduced.

The Guardian

They can be reduced to a code.

The Guardian

It can be reduced but not eradicated.

The New York Times

Not that Amy can be reduced to silliness, or stockings.

The Guardian

Conscience's call can be reduced to one word: Guilty!

The Guardian - Opinion

Distracting color can be reduced to black and white.

The New York Times - Health

Hospital waits can be reduced with more money.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be reduced", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being reduced and by what means. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be reduced" without specifying what "it" refers to. Ensure the subject is clear to prevent ambiguity. For example, instead of "It can be reduced", specify "The risk can be reduced by..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be reduced" functions as a passive construction indicating the potential for something to be lessened or diminished. It is commonly used to express that an action can be taken to decrease the quantity, size, or intensity of a particular thing. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be reduced" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to indicate the potential for lessening or diminishing something. It is frequently found in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts, signaling its broad applicability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. To ensure clarity, always specify what "it" refers to when using this phrase. Alternatives include "can be lessened" and "can be decreased", which offer similar meanings with subtle nuances. By following best practices and avoiding vague references, you can effectively use "can be reduced" to convey the possibility of mitigation and improvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be lessened

Replaces "reduced" with "lessened", implying a decrease in intensity or degree.

can be decreased

Substitutes "reduced" with "decreased", suggesting a numerical or measurable reduction.

can be minimized

Emphasizes the intention to reduce something to the smallest possible amount.

can be diminished

Similar to lessened, but can also imply a reduction in importance or reputation.

can be curtailed

Implies a restriction or limitation, often used for undesirable things.

can be alleviated

Suggests a lessening of pain, suffering, or difficulty.

can be mitigated

Focuses on lessening the severity or impact of something negative.

can be weakened

Implies a reduction in strength or power.

can be cut back

Suggests a deliberate reduction in spending or resources.

can be trimmed down

Emphasizes making something smaller or more concise.

FAQs

How do I use "can be reduced" in a sentence?

Use "can be reduced" to indicate that something is capable of being lessened or decreased. For example, "The cost of production "can be reduced" by using more efficient machinery."

What are some alternatives to "can be reduced"?

You can use alternatives like "can be lessened", "can be decreased", or "can be minimized" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "can be reduced" or "should be reduced"?

"Can be reduced" implies possibility, while "should be reduced" expresses a recommendation or obligation. The choice depends on whether you're indicating feasibility or advocating for a change. For instance, "Waste "can be reduced" through recycling" suggests a possibility, whereas "Waste "should be reduced"" advocates for waste reduction.

What is the difference between "can be reduced" and "is reduced"?

"Can be reduced" signifies a potential for reduction, while "is reduced" indicates that a reduction has already occurred. For example, "Emissions "can be reduced" with new technology" suggests the possibility, whereas "Emissions "is reduced" by 20%" states a fact.