can be regulated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be regulated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability to control or manage something, often in a legal, technical, or organizational context. Example: "The use of drones in urban areas can be regulated to ensure safety and privacy for residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it can be regulated very well.

The Guardian

Acts that can be regulated should not be criminalised.

The Economist

First, that the sexualisation of society can be regulated.

Independent

But precedent suggests that such experimentation can be regulated.

The Economist

Hot water whenever you want it; and your expenses can be regulated.

The Guardian

So should sex work be legal, so that it can be regulated?

The Guardian

Therefore, they say, it is a "nicotine-delivery system" that can be regulated as a medical device.

The New York Times

Or it could say that Citizens United was not the sort of corporation that can be regulated.

The New York Times

If it doesn't mean that the possession of arms can be regulated by law, what does it mean?

The New Yorker

Each UE's transmit power can be regulated.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The length of time period can be regulated by administrators.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be regulated", clearly specify what entity or mechanism is responsible for the regulation. This adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "can be regulated" without specifying what exactly is being regulated. For instance, instead of saying "the industry can be regulated", specify which aspect of the industry is subject to regulation. Say "the emissions from the industry can be regulated" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be regulated" functions as a passive construction expressing the possibility or permissibility of controlling something through rules or laws. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is used to denote the capacity for something to be subjected to regulation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be regulated" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to denote the possibility or ability to control something through rules or laws. According to Ludwig AI, it's usable in various contexts. As evidenced by the numerous examples, this phrase is common across news, scientific, and formal writing. Usage tips include clearly specifying what is being regulated to avoid vagueness. Related phrases include "can be controlled" and "is subject to regulation". The phrase maintains a neutral to formal register and is frequently found in discussions related to policy and governance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be controlled

Focuses on the ability to manage or restrain something, similar to regulating it.

can be governed

Implies a formal system or set of rules is in place, shifting the focus to governance.

can be managed

Emphasizes the practical aspects of overseeing something, rather than legal or systemic control.

is subject to regulation

Highlights that something is already under a regulatory framework, differing slightly in tense and emphasis.

can be standardized

Focuses on making something uniform and consistent, a specific type of regulation.

can be restricted

Highlights limitations and constraints, a potential outcome of regulation.

can be legislated

Specifically refers to the creation of laws to control something, a more formal and legalistic approach.

can be adjusted

Highlights the possibility of fine-tuning or modifying something, implying a flexible control.

can be monitored

Focuses on the act of observing and tracking something for compliance, a related but distinct concept.

can be influenced

Implies a less direct form of control, where actions can affect but not necessarily dictate outcomes.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be regulated" to describe something that is able to be controlled or governed by rules or laws. For example, "The use of drones "can be regulated" to ensure public safety".

What are some alternatives to "can be regulated"?

Alternatives include "can be controlled", "can be governed", or "is subject to regulation", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "can be regulated by"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. For example, "The internet "can be regulated by" government agencies".

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

"Can be regulated" implies the possibility or ability to regulate something, while "must be regulated" indicates a necessity or requirement for regulation.