could be augmented

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be augmented" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential for improvement or enhancement of something, such as a process, system, or feature. Example: "The current software functionality could be augmented to better meet user needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Blocked shots could be augmented by "attempted blocks" or "redirected shots".

The New York Times - Sports

Winter carbon supply could be augmented by routing a portion of the water through channels planted with dryland vegetation.

Water Research

If, as scientists have suggested, reconsolidation evolved so that memory could be augmented with new information, then behavior modification ought to have the same effect as a drug.

The New Yorker

It could be augmented with a keyword search against a database of language most likely to be used by people on the left or the right.

The Guardian - Tech

The paltry vegetable portions could be augmented by ordering sides à la carte — sautéed spinach, broccoli rabe and escarole, grilled asparagus and wild mushrooms.

The New York Times

The tactile pleasures of real conkers or catkins is ideal but these could be augmented by virtual tables of photographs and videos gathered in the wild.

The Guardian - Opinion

These could be augmented with strap-on boosters using five to seven of the same engines; the boosters could be recovered.

The New York Times - Science

The new legislature will set aside 25 percent of its seats for serving military officers, a number that could be augmented by former officers in civilian clothes.

The New York Times

And then we determined which functions of RFID could be augmented into the traditional tabletop game, making the game different and more enjoyable.

Procedia Manufacturing

Moreover, this disconfirmation could be augmented contingent upon the level of hotel segment (hotel star-classification) and the overall rating manifested by previous guests.

Computers in Human Behavior

When the writers, animators and directors sketched a short, they had a session with Disney where the writers talked about the plot while Disney interupted where he thought the business could be augmented or trimmed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the nuance of "augmented"—it suggests adding to something already existing. If you're describing a completely new feature or element, a different verb might be more appropriate.

Common error

While grammatically sound, overuse of passive constructions like "could be augmented" can make your writing sound weak. Actively state who or what is doing the augmenting for a more direct and engaging style. For example, instead of "The system could be augmented by new features", write "We could augment the system with new features".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be augmented" functions as a passive construction expressing a possibility or potential for enhancement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

44%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could be augmented" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to suggest potential improvements or enhancements. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and common usage across diverse fields, particularly in science and news media. While it is essential to consider the tone and context in which it is employed, the phrase serves as a valuable tool for suggesting enhancements or extensions. Remember to consider alternatives like "might be enhanced" or "could be improved" to add variety to your writing, and to avoid overuse of the passive voice for clarity. The phrase's frequency and acceptance in authoritative sources underscore its reliability in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be enhanced

Emphasizes a possibility of improvement or making something better.

could be improved

Focuses on making something better or more effective.

may be supplemented

Highlights the idea of adding something extra to complete or enhance.

can be expanded

Suggests increasing the size, volume, or scope of something.

can be enriched

Implies adding value or quality to something.

might be reinforced

Focuses on strengthening or supporting something.

may be extended

Suggests prolonging or increasing the reach of something.

can be amplified

Emphasizes increasing the intensity or effect of something.

might be boosted

Suggests increasing the power, effectiveness, or value of something.

may be upgraded

Highlights improving something to a higher standard or level.

FAQs

How can I use "could be augmented" in a sentence?

The phrase "could be augmented" indicates a possibility for something to be enhanced or improved. For example, "The existing data "could be augmented" with new survey results".

What are some alternatives to "could be augmented"?

You can use alternatives like "might be enhanced", "could be improved", or "may be supplemented" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "could be augmented" in formal writing?

It's appropriate in formal writing when discussing potential improvements or additions to existing systems, processes, or information. Ensure the tone remains objective and professional.

What's the difference between "could be augmented" and "should be augmented"?

"Could be augmented" suggests a possibility or potential for enhancement, while "should be augmented" implies a recommendation or necessity for improvement. The latter carries a stronger sense of obligation or advisability.