can be shrunk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be shrunk" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability of an object or concept to be reduced in size or scale. Example: "The fabric can be shrunk in the wash if the temperature is too high."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

There is no evidence his nuclear weapons can be shrunk to fit atop a missile.

The New York Times

In other words: transistors can be shrunk further, but they are now getting more expensive.

The Economist

If democracy can't be eliminated, at least it can be shrunk through authoritarianism.

The Guardian - Tech

If those things can be shrunk, he believes, so can their fondness for the state.Good luck with that, Mr Norquist.

The Economist

What is far more essential, it turns out, is a room that can be shrunk or enlarged, quickly.

The New York Times

This play cries out for trimming; the first two acts can be shrunk to 20 minutes without great damage.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

This way, the number of parameters to be estimated can be reduced and/or their feasibility region can be shrinked.

BMC Systems Biology

If the reputations of artists and authors can be stretched to accommodate things we wished they had done, they can also be shrunk to diminish the greatness they manifestly did produce.

The Guardian - Opinion

The announcer's image can also be shrunk or enlarged to reinforce the illusion of walking away from or toward the camera.

The New York Times - Tech

Cowell also embodies Frost's other most substantial legacy: the realisation that the UK and US television schedules can sometimes be shrunk into a single, richly exploitable market.

The Guardian - Opinion

For now images can only be shrunk.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be shrunk", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being reduced and the means or conditions under which this reduction occurs. For example, specify whether a file size, a physical object, or an abstract concept is being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "can be shrunk" without specifying what is being reduced. For instance, instead of saying "the project can be shrunk", clarify it as "the project scope can be shrunk to meet the deadline".

Linguistic Context

"Can be shrunk" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating the possibility of something undergoing a reduction in size, scale, or scope. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, spanning from physical objects to abstract concepts. It describes a potential action rather than a completed one.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Science

25%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be shrunk" is a commonly used passive verb phrase indicating the potential for something to be reduced in size or scope. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and versatility across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to provide clear context regarding what is being reduced. Alternatives like "can be reduced" or "can be minimized" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance required. Remember to specify the subject undergoing reduction to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is reducible

Focuses on the possibility of being lessened or simplified.

can be minimized

Highlights the ability to reduce something to the smallest possible amount or degree.

may be lessened

Stresses the potential for something to become smaller in extent or intensity.

may be diminished

Emphasizes the potential for decrease in importance or size.

is compressible

Focuses on the capacity to be squeezed or compacted.

can be compressed

Emphasizes the ability to be pressed together.

is able to be shortened

Highlights the capability to make something less long.

can be contracted

Implies a drawing together or reduction in area or length.

can be trimmed

Focuses on the ability to cut away unnecessary parts to make something smaller.

is susceptible to reduction

Indicates a vulnerability or tendency to decrease.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be shrunk" to describe the potential for something to be reduced in size, scope, or amount. For example, "The budget "can be shrunk" if we cut unnecessary expenses."

What are some alternatives to saying "can be shrunk"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "can be reduced", "can be minimized", or "can be lessened".

Which is correct: "can be shrunk" or "can be shrinked"?

"Can be shrunk" is the correct passive form of the verb. "Shrinked" is a non-standard past participle of "shrink".

What's the difference between "can be shrunk" and "is shrinking"?

"Can be shrunk" implies a potential or possibility for reduction, while "is shrinking" indicates an ongoing process of reduction.