could be compromised

USAGE SUMMARY

"could be compromised" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express possibility, usually that something is vulnerable or at risk of being damaged or weakened. For example: "The security of the computer system could be compromised if the network were to be hacked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Patient safety could be compromised, they warned.

The New York Times

But he conceded that any system could be compromised.

The New York Times - Tech

The wall could be compromised without proper precautions.

The New York Times

Basic law enforcement and national security could be compromised.

The New York Times

"There is a danger that the excellence of this University could be compromised.

University of California, Berkeley

Drug companies warn that the quality of care could be compromised.

The New York Times

If we do not act, the security of our water supplies could be compromised..

The Guardian

Credit card data, passwords and other information handled by these websites could be compromised.

The Guardian - Tech

However, the effectiveness of China's small arsenal could be compromised very much sooner.

The New York Times

It was restored to partial service after it was determined that no information could be compromised.

The New York Times

If the rift lingers after the primaries, the organizational value of the blogs could be compromised.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be compromised", ensure the context clearly identifies what is at risk and the potential cause of the compromise. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "could be compromised" without specifying what 'it' refers to. For instance, instead of saying 'Security could be compromised', specify 'The network's security could be compromised by outdated software'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be compromised" functions as a modal passive construction. It expresses the possibility that something may be put at risk or its integrity may be damaged. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

35%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could be compromised" is a versatile phrase used to express the possibility of risk or vulnerability. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability in English writing. It's prevalent in contexts like news, science, and academia, serving as a warning about potential dangers to security, integrity, or effectiveness. When using this phrase, clarity is key: specify what's at risk and the potential cause to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "might be at risk" or "may be jeopardized" to fine-tune the message. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and register, writers can effectively employ "could be compromised" to convey potential risks and vulnerabilities in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be at risk

Emphasizes the potential danger or harm that could occur.

may be jeopardized

Highlights the possibility of something valuable being put in danger.

could be undermined

Focuses on the weakening or subversion of something's effectiveness or stability.

might be vulnerable

Directly points out a weakness or susceptibility to attack or harm.

may be susceptible

Similar to 'vulnerable' but can also imply a predisposition to something negative.

could be endangered

Emphasizes the threat to the existence or well-being of something.

might be weakened

Focuses on the reduction of strength or effectiveness.

may be affected

A more general term indicating a potential negative influence or impact.

could suffer damage

Directly indicates the potential for harm or impairment.

might face challenges

Suggests potential difficulties or obstacles that could arise.

FAQs

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

You can use "could be compromised" to express the possibility that something is vulnerable or at risk of being damaged, weakened, or exposed. For example, 'The data security "could be compromised" if the system isn't updated regularly'.

What are some alternatives to "could be compromised"?

Alternatives include phrases like "might be at risk", "may be jeopardized", or "might be vulnerable", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "could be compromised" or "is compromised"?

"Could be compromised" indicates a possibility or potential risk, while "is compromised" suggests that the event has already occurred. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the situation you're describing.

What does it mean when something "could be compromised"?

It means that something is in a state where its security, integrity, or effectiveness is at risk and potentially able to be weakened, damaged, or exposed to threats.