can consume

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can consume" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the ability to take in or utilize something, such as food, resources, or information. Example: "The new software can consume large amounts of data quickly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, not all consumers want to (or can) consume sugars the most obvious source of sweetness.

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

"We can consume it here".

The New York Times

He can consume this much.

Yale University

That can consume a lot of bandwidth".

The New York Times - Tech

Us westerners can consume the lot.

The Guardian - Travel

They can consume something, so 3 - q.

Yale University

"We are all generating more media than we can consume.

The New York Times

Both activities can consume vast amounts of bandwidth.

The Guardian - Tech

It plays to that base idea: you can consume less.

The Guardian - Arts

I can consume with the best of them.

The New York Times

Faced with persistent starvation, the cell can "consume itself".

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the capabilities of a system or software, use "can consume" to clearly indicate its ability to process or utilize resources.

Common error

While "can consume" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "can use" or "is able to use" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can consume" primarily functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the ability or capacity to utilize, ingest, or process something. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's considered grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

11%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can consume" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate the ability or capacity to utilize something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability across various contexts. Its usage spans from formal academic and scientific writing to news reporting and general discussions, demonstrating its adaptability. While alternatives like "is able to use" or "may utilize" exist, "can consume" remains a direct and effective choice. When writing, consider the context to ensure the tone aligns with your intended audience, and avoid overusing it in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is able to use

Replaces "can" with "is able to", providing a more formal tone.

can process

Shorter and direct alternative, focusing on the action of processing.

is capable of utilizing

Emphasizes the capacity to make use of something effectively.

may utilize

Offers a slightly more tentative or conditional tone.

has the capacity to ingest

Focuses on the ability to take something in, often referring to food or data.

is equipped to handle

Suggests the phrase has the necessary tools or features.

is able to absorb

Highlights the intake and integration of something.

is designed to process

Highlights the intended function of handling something, often in a technical context.

has the facility to use

Stresses the ease or convenience of using something.

is permitted to consume

Indicates that the consumption is allowed by someone in authority.

FAQs

How to use "can consume" in a sentence?

You can use "can consume" to describe the ability to use or utilize something, such as "The new software "can consume" large amounts of data efficiently".

What can I say instead of "can consume"?

You can use alternatives like "is able to use", "is capable of utilizing", or "may utilize" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can consume" or "is consuming"?

"Can consume" indicates the ability or capacity to consume, while "is consuming" describes an ongoing action. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "can consume" and "can use"?

"Can consume" often implies a process where something is used up or utilized, while "can use" is a more general term for the ability to employ something.