can be stacked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'can be stacked' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to describe something that can be piled up, or layered, on top of each other. For example, "These bookshelves can be stacked to save space."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The figures can be stacked inside an accompanying casket.

The New York Times

The chairs can be stacked up to seven high.

The New York Times

As the hive grows, additional cabinets can be stacked one atop another.

The New York Times

To contain extra wires, Sombreros can be stacked, one on top of another.

The New York Times

That means boxes or cargo can be stacked without rocking like a teeter-totter.

The New York Times

They can be stacked about 16 feet tall or laid out in a long horizontal strip.

The New York Times - Arts

Many reject the idea that schools can be stacked up against one another in any meaningful way.

The Economist

While the luggage space in the trunk is rather narrow, bags can be stacked to the ceiling.

The New York Times

After that, they are blast-chilled and refrigerated until they can be stacked on carts and loaded on planes.

The New York Times

And when not in use, Bean Stoks can be stacked in a corner to form a colorful beanpole.

The New York Times

An ordinance to limit how high containers can be stacked was recently introduced in the Council, Mr. Amador said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical arrangements, use "can be stacked" to clearly indicate the ability to arrange items vertically for space efficiency or organizational purposes.

Common error

Avoid using "can be stacked" in contexts where it doesn't logically apply. For instance, saying "ideas can be stacked" might sound awkward; consider alternatives like "can be combined" or "can be layered" for abstract concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be stacked" functions as a passive construction indicating the possibility or ability to arrange items vertically. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

6%

Academia

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be stacked" is a common and versatile expression used to describe items with the ability to be arranged vertically. Ludwig AI's analysis, based on a wealth of real-world examples, confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains, including news, science, and general knowledge. While primarily used in a literal sense to describe physical arrangements, it can also be employed figuratively to convey the idea of building upon concepts or combining elements. When using "can be stacked", ensure that the context is appropriate and consider alternative phrases like "can be layered" or "can be arranged" for more nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be piled up

Implies a less organized and potentially unstable arrangement.

can be layered

Suggests arrangement in distinct, flat layers.

can be accumulated

Focuses on the gradual increase in quantity through stacking.

can be assembled

Implies a more structured and purposeful arrangement.

can be arranged

Suggests a deliberate and orderly placement.

can be superimposed

Indicates placing one thing on top of another, often in a visual or abstract sense.

can be consolidated

Implies combining multiple items into a single, more compact unit.

can be nested

Suggests fitting one item inside another, often in a series.

can be tiered

Indicates arrangement in levels or ranks.

can be aggregated

Highlights the gathering of items into a group, which might then be stacked.

FAQs

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

Use "can be stacked" to describe items that can be placed one on top of another, such as "These chairs "can be stacked" to save space".

What is an alternative to saying "can be stacked"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "can be piled up", "can be layered", or "can be arranged".

Is it correct to use "can be stacked" in a figurative sense?

While primarily used for physical stacking, "can be stacked" can be used figuratively to describe abstract concepts being built upon each other, though it should be used carefully to avoid awkward phrasing. Consider if alternatives such as "can be combined" are more appropriate.

What are some examples of items that "can be stacked"?

Common examples include chairs, boxes, luggage and containers. The phrase is used to highlight the space-saving or organizational benefit of their design or properties.