can be uneven

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be uneven" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not uniform or consistent in quality, shape, or distribution. Example: "The surface of the table can be uneven, making it difficult to place items on it without them sliding off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But audiences can be uneven and unpredictable.

The New York Times

The writing, in thistranslation, anyway, can be uneven.

The New York Times - Books

Quality can be uneven, especially in white wines.

The Washington Post

Entrees can be uneven but are seldom boring, and desserts are uniformly fine.

The New York Times

Although the food can be uneven, good fare can be found.

The New York Times - Arts

The food can be uneven, and too often engenders appreciation more than ardor.

The New York Times - Food

Articles can be uneven, but they don't unravel or skitter toward unreadability.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

In cross country, the ground can sometimes be uneven.

WikiHow

Despite its high reputation, it has been remarked that his artwork of this period can at times be uneven and uninspired.

Wikipedia

It is recommended that you avoid using recessed can lights because the light distribution will be uneven and can make the ceiling seem more closed in.

WikiHow

Inpatient mental health care, for example, can be very uneven.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be uneven", ensure the context clearly indicates what aspect is uneven. For example, specify if you're referring to quality, texture, or distribution for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "can be uneven" without specifying the context. Saying "the quality can be uneven" is vague. Instead, specify which aspects of the quality are inconsistent, such as taste, appearance, or durability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be uneven" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing the possibility or potential for something to lack uniformity or consistency. It modifies a noun or noun phrase, indicating that its characteristics may vary. This is supported by Ludwig AI's assessment and numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be uneven" is a versatile expression used to indicate a lack of uniformity or consistency. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for various writing styles, though specifying the aspect that is uneven enhances clarity. Alternatives like ""may be inconsistent"" or ""might be variable"" offer nuanced variations depending on the intended emphasis. Remember to avoid overgeneralization by always specifying what aspect exhibits unevenness for more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be inconsistent

Replaces "can" with "may", suggesting possibility rather than ability, and uses "inconsistent" instead of "uneven" to emphasize a lack of uniformity.

is not always consistent

Directly states that something does not maintain a constant quality or form.

might be variable

Substitutes "can" with "might", indicating a lower probability, and uses "variable" to highlight the fluctuating nature.

could be irregular

Replaces "can" with "could", expressing possibility, and uses "irregular" to describe a lack of evenness or pattern.

is subject to variation

Uses a more formal structure to indicate that something is prone to change or differ.

is liable to fluctuate

Emphasizes the tendency to change or vary, particularly in a way that is not predictable.

tends to be erratic

Suggests a pattern of unpredictable or inconsistent behavior.

often lacks uniformity

Focuses on the absence of consistent quality or appearance.

presents inconsistencies

Highlights the presence of conflicting or differing elements.

displays disparities

Indicates clear differences or inequalities.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be uneven" to describe something that lacks uniformity or consistency. For example: "The quality of service "can be uneven" depending on the staff member."

What are some alternatives to "can be uneven"?

Alternatives include "may be inconsistent", "might be variable", or "could be irregular", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "can be uneven" or "is uneven"?

"Can be uneven" implies a possibility or occasional occurrence of unevenness, while "is uneven" suggests a constant state. The choice depends on whether the unevenness is consistent or not.

What's the difference between "can be uneven" and "tends to be uneven"?

"Can be uneven" indicates a possibility of being uneven, whereas "tends to be uneven" suggests a higher likelihood or frequent occurrence of unevenness.