can be shifted

USAGE SUMMARY

'can be shifted' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase usually implies that something has the potential to be altered, changed, rearranged, or moved in some way. For example, "The production line can be shifted to accommodate new demands."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The five-speed can be shifted manually.

The New York Times

These can be shifted and redirected.

The Guardian

COOL TECHNOLOGY -- Some Magnums' automatic transmissions can be shifted manually.

The New York Times

But like a car, it can be shifted into low gear.

The New York Times

It is coupled with a smooth five-speed AutoStick that can be shifted manually.

The New York Times

Both engines are paired only with a four-speed automatic that can be shifted manually.

The New York Times

In any organisation, costs and revenues can be shifted easily from one period to another.

The Economist

The transmission can be shifted manually using the floor-mounted shifter, but why bother?

The New York Times

The dual-clutch transmission can be shifted manually using paddles on the steering column.

The New York Times

It can be shifted manually, which is helpful in mountain driving or when the driver simply wants more control.

The New York Times

Most of the clinics have already been temporarily shuttered, and in some cases patients can be shifted with few problems.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be shifted", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being shifted and the reason for the shift. This helps avoid ambiguity and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be shifted" without specifying what is being shifted. For example, instead of saying "Responsibilities can be shifted", specify "Project responsibilities can be shifted to the marketing team" to provide a clearer understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be shifted" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing possibility or capability. It indicates that something has the potential to be moved, altered, or transferred. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

58%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be shifted" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates the possibility of moving, altering, or transferring something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Analysis of various sources reveals that it is frequently used in scientific and news contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being shifted. Alternatives such as "can be moved" or "can be adjusted" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to always provide clear context to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be moved

Focuses on the physical relocation or transfer of something.

can be transferred

Highlights the act of moving something from one place or state to another.

can be relocated

Emphasizes changing the place or position of something, often permanently.

can be adjusted

Implies making minor changes to improve suitability or performance.

can be altered

Suggests a change in form, nature, or character.

can be changed

A general term for making something different.

can be transformed

Indicates a significant change in appearance or character.

can be converted

Suggests changing something into a different form or substance.

can be displaced

Focuses on the removal and relocation of something, often by force.

can be realigned

Implies adjusting something to bring it back into a correct or desired position.

FAQs

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

Use "can be shifted" to indicate that something is capable of being moved, altered, or transferred. For example, "The meeting time "can be shifted" to accommodate everyone's schedules".

What is a good alternative to "can be shifted"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "can be moved", "can be transferred", or "can be adjusted" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "can be moved" or "can be shifted"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "can be moved" often implies a physical relocation, while "can be shifted" can also refer to changes in abstract concepts like responsibilities or deadlines. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does "can be shifted" mean in the context of project management?

In project management, "can be shifted" often means that deadlines, tasks, or resources can be moved or reallocated to different times or team members based on changing priorities or unforeseen circumstances.