can be stretched

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be stretched" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has the potential to be extended or expanded, either literally or metaphorically. Example: "The rubber band can be stretched to fit around larger objects."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Boundaries can be stretched only so far.

The New York Times - Books

"Form can be flexible; time can be stretched," he said.

The New York Times

The themes, though, can be stretched to distraction.

The New York Times - Arts

The chain of permission can be stretched even further.

The New York Times

Digital pictures can be stretched without distorting a subject's face.

The New York Times - Tech

After affine alignment, tissue can be stretched to better conform to anatomy.

Harvard University

In these regions, a student stipend can be stretched to its limit to afford basic necessities.

Yale University

Paired with super-efficient appliances, this off-grid power can be stretched even farther.

University of California, Berkeley

Moreover, the healed hydrogel can be stretched nearly 2.5 times of their original length.

European Polymer Journal

The other is island-bridge design, which can be stretched in all directions.

Current Opinion in Solid State and Materials Science

Muscles and tendons can be stretched to improve flexibility (the range of motion at a joint).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical properties, use "can be stretched" to indicate elasticity or flexibility. For example, "This material can be stretched without breaking."

Common error

Avoid using "can be stretched" when a more precise verb like "extended", "expanded", or "prolonged" would better convey the intended meaning. For instance, instead of saying "The deadline can be stretched", consider "The deadline "can be extended"" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be stretched" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the potential for something to be extended or elongated. Ludwig AI's examples illustrate its use in both literal and figurative contexts, showcasing its flexibility in describing physical properties and abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

32%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be stretched" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes the ability of something to be extended or expanded, both literally and figuratively. As noted by Ludwig AI, this modal passive construction appears across diverse contexts, including science, news media, and academia, indicating its broad applicability. While generally grammatically correct, it is important to ensure that its usage aligns with the intended meaning and that more precise alternatives are considered when necessary. By following best practices and avoiding common errors, writers can effectively leverage the phrase's communicative power to convey flexibility, adaptability, and limitations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be extended

Focuses on the act of making something longer or more expansive in scope or duration.

can be expanded

Emphasizes increasing the size, volume, or range of something.

can be broadened

Highlights the act of widening the scope or range of something to include more elements.

can be prolonged

Specifically refers to making something last longer in time.

can be augmented

Suggests adding to something to enhance its capabilities or effectiveness.

can be amplified

Implies increasing the intensity or strength of something.

can be adapted

Focuses on modifying something to suit new conditions or purposes.

can be accommodated

Highlights the ability to make room for or adjust to new elements or situations.

can be manipulated

Suggests skillful handling or control to achieve a desired outcome.

can be tweaked

Implies making small adjustments to improve something.

FAQs

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

"Can be stretched" is used to describe something that has the capacity to be extended or elongated. For example, "This rubber band can be stretched significantly without losing its shape."

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

You can use alternatives like ""can be extended"", "can be expanded", or "can be elongated" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "can be stretched" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "can be stretched" implies that limits or boundaries are flexible or adaptable. For example, "The budget can be stretched to accommodate essential needs."

Which is correct, "can be stretched" or "could be stretched"?

Both "can be stretched" and "could be stretched" are grammatically correct, but they convey different meanings. "Can be stretched" indicates a present possibility or capability, while "could be stretched" suggests a conditional or past possibility.