could be maintained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be maintained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of keeping or sustaining something over time. Example: "The quality of the product could be maintained through regular inspections and updates."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We try to cluster farms together so they could be maintained as economically viable farm communities".

The New York Times

That such vision could be maintained while living through the events described is almost beyond belief.

The Guardian - Books

It could be maintained that, at least as far as Vietnam is concerned, the Pres.

The New Yorker

That study suggested that effective deterrence could be maintained with an arsenal of 900 strategic warheads.

The New York Times

Second, the proposal assumes that the 60% limit could be maintained.

The Economist

Even the repository itself could be maintained by different organizations.

Open Geospatial Data, Software and Standards

Ross Wilmott said this showed services could be maintained.

BBC

The purity of H2 in the permeate side of membrane could be maintained over 99.5%.

Catalysis Today

In addition, the minimal amplitude at the original tuning frequency could be maintained.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

This even surface could be maintained up to the heating of 420 K.

Polymer

An ignited state of the reactor could be maintained successfully for 3.5 days.

Chemical Engineering Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be maintained", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what is being maintained and under what conditions. This provides clarity and context to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "could be maintained" in overly complex sentences where its meaning becomes ambiguous. Simpler phrasing often enhances clarity. For example, instead of "The system, which was initially unstable, could be maintained with the introduction of new protocols, assuming resources are allocated," consider "The system's stability can be ensured with new protocols if resources are allocated."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be maintained" functions as a passive construction expressing possibility or condition. As noted by Ludwig AI, it suggests something is capable of being kept in a certain state or condition. Many examples show this in scientific and technical contexts, where specific conditions allow for something to persist.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

69%

News & Media

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could be maintained" is a versatile construction indicating the potential for something to be kept in a specific condition. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. It is particularly prevalent in scientific and technical writing, where the emphasis is on describing conditions necessary for stability or continuity. While grammatically sound, overuse in complex sentences should be avoided to ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "could be preserved" or "could be sustained" offer nuanced variations for more precise communication. Given its frequency and diverse applications, mastering the usage of "could be maintained" enhances both precision and clarity in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be preserved

Emphasizes keeping something in its original condition over time.

could be sustained

Focuses on the ability to support or continue something.

could be upheld

Highlights the act of defending or supporting something.

could be conserved

Implies careful management to prevent depletion.

could be retained

Focuses on keeping possession of something.

could be prolonged

Suggests extending the duration of something.

could be perpetuated

Highlights the act of causing something to continue indefinitely.

could be safeguarded

Emphasizes protection from harm or damage.

could be continued

Simple continuation of an action.

could be prolonged

Suggests extend the duration of something.

FAQs

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

Use "could be maintained" to express the possibility of preserving or sustaining a certain condition or state. For example, "The temperature "could be maintained" at a constant level with proper insulation."

What are some alternatives to "could be maintained"?

Alternatives include "could be preserved", "could be sustained", or "could be upheld", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "could be maintained" or "can be maintained"?

Both "could be maintained" and "can be maintained" are grammatically correct, but they convey different meanings. "Could be maintained" implies a possibility or condition, while "can be maintained" suggests a capability or ability.

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

"Could be maintained" expresses a possibility, whereas "should be maintained" expresses an obligation or recommendation. For example, "The equipment "could be maintained" with regular servicing" suggests it's possible, while "The equipment "should be maintained" with regular servicing" implies it's advisable.