can be specified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be specified" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something can be defined or detailed in a particular way. Example: "The parameters for the project can be specified in the initial meeting to ensure everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Besides, if your crime can be specified, then so can the punishment.

The Guardian - Opinion

These transitional movements can be specified acoustically in terms of the movements of the formant frequencies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some of the most advanced driver aids can be specified in certain Mercedes-Benz models.

The Economist

Arbitrary stop conditions can be specified.

EURASIP Journal on Audio, Speech, and Music Processing

Resolution of the figure can be specified.

Journal of Cheminformatics

The normal form of definitions can be specified as follows.

SEP

Fonts, colors, and page backgrounds can be specified explicitly.

How to Build a Digital Library

These errors can be specified as additive or multiplicative-exponential.

Journal of Economic Structures

The model can be specified in two steps.

Large-scale Assessments in Education

Therefore, FP in 15 can be specified as nP.

Lingua Sinica

Other methods can be specified in the optional equations.

Boundary Value Problems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be specified", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being defined or detailed. Providing specific examples or parameters can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be specified" without clearly indicating who or what is doing the specifying. Be explicit about the agent or method involved in the specification process to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be specified" functions as a passive construction indicating possibility or ability. It expresses that something is capable of being defined, detailed, or designated. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

9%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be specified" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to convey that something is capable of being defined or detailed. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is frequently used across diverse fields such as science, news, and encyclopedias. To ensure clarity in your writing, remember to explicitly state who or what is doing the specifying and consider using alternatives like "can be defined" or "can be determined" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be determined

Replaces 'specified' with 'determined', focusing on the act of finding something out rather than setting its parameters.

can be defined

Uses 'defined' instead of 'specified', emphasizing the act of giving a clear meaning or description.

can be established

Substitutes 'specified' with 'established', highlighting the creation of something firm or stable.

can be designated

Replaces 'specified' with 'designated', focusing on the act of officially assigning or indicating something.

can be stipulated

Uses 'stipulated' instead of 'specified', implying a formal agreement or condition.

can be identified

Substitutes 'specified' with 'identified', shifting the focus to recognizing or pointing out something specific.

can be laid down

Replaces 'specified' with 'laid down', emphasizing the act of setting out rules or principles.

can be prescribed

Uses 'prescribed' instead of 'specified', suggesting a recommendation or requirement.

can be custom-made

Substitutes 'specified' with 'custom-made', implying the ability to create something according to particular specifications.

can be characterized

Replaces 'specified' with 'characterized', focusing on describing the distinctive nature or features of something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can be specified" is used to indicate that something can be defined or detailed in a particular way. For example, "The noise reduction level "can be specified" as Off, Auto, Weak, Strong, or MAX."

What alternatives can I use instead of "can be specified"?

You can use alternatives like "can be defined", "can be determined", or "can be established" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "can be specified" or "can be defined"?

"Can be specified" and "can be defined" are both suitable for formal contexts, but "can be specified" may imply a more precise or technical definition.

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

"Can be specified" indicates that something is optional or has a default value, whereas "must be specified" means that something is required and cannot be omitted.