can be shaped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be shaped" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the ability of something to be molded, influenced, or formed in a particular way. Example: "The future of technology can be shaped by our choices today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At least there, they can be shaped.

The New York Times - Books

"Public attitudes can be shaped and shift so radically.

The New Yorker

From each fragment, a meaningful picture can be shaped.

The New York Times - Sports

Solid materials can be shaped either hot or cold.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The channel can be shaped like a bracelet, necklace, ring, pin or other piece of jewelry.

The New York Times

Yet a tutor's lessons can be shaped by their other work.

The Guardian

Embryonic cells are a sort of magic clay that can be shaped into organs and tissues.

The New York Times - Science

The relationship between the stage and audience can be shaped for each production into different configurations".

The Guardian

"And it's a very important medium through which the minds of the people can be shaped".

The New York Times

These include flexible rubber sidewalk pavers, which can be shaped to avoid trees or other objects.

The New York Times

It's the only human material that can be shaped and distorted as you wish".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be shaped", consider the specific nuance you want to convey – is it about physical form, influence, or adaptation? Choose synonyms accordingly to enhance clarity.

Common error

While "can be shaped" is grammatically sound, avoid overusing passive voice in your writing. Active voice often creates more direct and engaging sentences. Rephrase where possible to highlight the actor rather than the acted upon.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be shaped" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject receives the action of shaping. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to describe the capacity for something to be molded or influenced. Examples show its usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be shaped" is a versatile phrase used to express the potential for something to be molded, influenced, or formed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, indicating its relevance across various fields. While it's a useful phrase, consider the specific nuance you want to convey and avoid overusing passive voice for more direct and engaging writing. Alternatives like "can be molded" or "can be influenced" can provide greater precision depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be molded

This alternative suggests a physical transformation, emphasizing the act of forming something into a specific shape.

can be influenced

This phrase highlights the ability to affect the development or behavior of something or someone.

can be formed

This implies the creation of something new, often from constituent parts.

can be molded into

Similar to 'can be molded', this emphasizes the resulting form after being shaped.

can be crafted

This suggests a skilled or artistic approach to shaping something.

can be fashioned

Implies creating something with care and attention to detail.

can be sculpted

This emphasizes the act of shaping something from a solid material, like clay or stone.

can be tailored

This suggests customization to fit specific needs or requirements.

can be adapted

This focuses on the ability to modify something to suit different conditions or purposes.

can be transformed

This phrase implies a significant change in form or nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be shaped" to describe the ability of something to be molded, influenced, or formed. For example, "Public opinion "can be shaped" by media coverage."

What can I say instead of "can be shaped"?

Alternatives include "can be molded", "can be influenced", or "can be formed" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "can be shaped"?

While "can be shaped" is grammatically correct in passive voice, using the active voice can often make your writing more direct and engaging. For instance, instead of "The clay can be shaped", you could say "Someone can shape the clay".

What does "can be shaped" imply about the subject?

The phrase "can be shaped" implies that the subject is malleable, adaptable, or susceptible to change through external forces or actions. It suggests a potential for transformation or influence.