can be varied

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'can be varied' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is capable of being different or changing. For example, "The recipe for this cake can be varied to suit your tastes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At a given drain voltage the current can be varied by varying the gate voltage.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Each can be varied in countless ways.

The New York Times

Neither of these can be varied rapidly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The IPA can be varied in writing.

The Guardian - Money

Its shape can be varied.

Powder Technology

The recipes here can be varied in many ways.

The New York Times - Food

Here again, the seasonings can be varied as you like.

The New York Times - Food

A shrub can be varied according to whim.

The New York Times - Food

The consequences for patients can be varied and unexpected.

The New York Times - Health

Reasons for the rejection of a candidate can be varied.

The New York Times

In addition the active electrode area can be varied.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be varied", ensure the context clearly indicates what factor influences the variation. For example, "The cooking time can be varied depending on the oven temperature."

Common error

Avoid using "can be varied" without specifying what can be varied. Instead of saying "The settings can be varied", specify the aspect that can be adjusted: "The intensity of the light can be varied."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be varied" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the possibility or ability for something to be changed or modified. Ludwig examples show its use across diverse fields to suggest adjustability. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of this structure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be varied" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to express the potential for change or modification across various contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans from scientific literature to news articles, demonstrating its broad applicability. Its frequency is very common, suggesting widespread acceptance. When using the phrase, ensuring clarity regarding the element being varied is crucial. Consider alternatives such as ""can be modified"" or ""can be adjusted"" to fine-tune the meaning. Remember to specify what exactly is subject to variation for optimal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be modified

This alternative emphasizes the ability to alter or adjust something.

can be altered

This alternative is similar to "can be modified", highlighting the possibility of making changes.

can be adjusted

This suggests the ability to fine-tune or regulate something.

can be changed

A more direct synonym that emphasizes the possibility of transformation.

can be customized

This emphasizes the ability to tailor something to specific needs or preferences.

can be adapted

This highlights the ability to make something suitable for different conditions or uses.

is subject to variation

This more formal phrase indicates that something is likely to change or differ.

is capable of being changed

This alternative offers a more descriptive and somewhat verbose way to express the same idea.

allows for flexibility

This emphasizes the inherent adaptability and range of possibilities.

can differ

This highlights the potential for something to be dissimilar or distinct.

FAQs

How do I use "can be varied" in a sentence?

Use "can be varied" to indicate that something is capable of being changed or modified. For instance, "The dosage of the medication can be varied based on the patient's response".

What's a good alternative to "can be varied"?

Alternatives include "can be modified", "can be adjusted", or "can be changed", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "can be varied" or "can vary"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "can be varied" is passive, while "can vary" is active. Use "can be varied" when you want to emphasize the thing being changed, and "can vary" when you want to emphasize the agent causing the change. For example: "The results can be varied by changing the parameters" vs "The results can vary".

What determines how something "can be varied"?

The context usually dictates what factors influence how something "can be varied". For example, a recipe might say "The amount of spice can be varied depending on your preference".