can be updated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be updated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability to modify or change something, such as software, information, or data. Example: "The application is user-friendly and can be updated easily to include new features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And apps can be updated.

The New York Times - Arts

Perhaps this chart can be updated.

The Economist

AOL Journals can be updated by using AOL Instant Messenger.

The New York Times - Tech

Tony Burke says forecasts can be updated over time.

The Guardian

It can be updated as often as required.

The New York Times

The old can be updated, too, turned into something modern.

The New York Times

The coat can be updated by changing the silhouette.

The New York Times - Style

All the positions can be updated in every frame.

Cornell University

However, in the meantime, the app can be updated simply by deleting and reinstalling.

The Guardian

The signs Yankee fans sometimes wave can be updated: Babe, Bucky, Buckner, Boone.

The New York Times - Sports

It saves the hassle of a group email and can be updated instantly.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be updated", clearly specify what is being updated and the context in which the update occurs to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The system can be updated", say "The software system can be updated with the latest security patches".

Common error

Avoid using "can be updated" without specifying what is being updated. For instance, saying "The data can be updated" is less effective than "The customer database can be updated with new contact information" because the latter provides context and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be updated" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating the possibility or capability of something undergoing modification or change. This is supported by the examples provided by Ludwig where various entities, like apps, software, or information, are described as being able to be updated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31.67%

Science

38.33%

Academia

6.67%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be updated" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates the potential for modification or change. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability, particularly in contexts related to news, science, and technology. When employing this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to avoiding vagueness. Consider alternatives like "is subject to revision" or "allows for modification" to add nuance. Overall, "can be updated" serves as a practical way to communicate adaptability and maintainability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be modified

Focuses on the ability to change or alter something.

is amenable to updates

Emphasizes the receptiveness of something to being updated.

allows for modification

Highlights the permission or allowance for changes.

is easily revised

Emphasizes the ease with which something can be revised.

is subject to revision

Highlights the possibility of revising or correcting something.

is designed to be updated

Highlights the intentional design for future updates.

is capable of being amended

Stresses the potential for improvement through amendments.

can be corrected

Focuses on the ability to rectify errors or inaccuracies.

can be refreshed

Suggests a renewal or revitalization through updates.

is adaptable

Highlights the inherent ability to adjust to new conditions.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be updated" to indicate that something has the ability to be modified or changed. For example: "The app "can be updated" by deleting and reinstalling."

What are some alternatives to "can be updated"?

Some alternatives include "is subject to revision", "can be modified", or "is amenable to updates", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

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

"Can be updated" is the correct form. The auxiliary verb "be" is necessary to form the passive voice.

What's the difference between "can be updated" and "will be updated"?

"Can be updated" indicates a possibility or capability, while "will be updated" indicates a future action that is planned or expected. For example, "The software "can be updated"" means it has the capability, while "The software will be updated" means it is scheduled for an update.