could be undermined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be undermined" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has the potential to be weakened or damaged in some way. Example: "The project's success could be undermined by a lack of funding and support from stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But that confidence could be undermined.

The Economist

"Recent progress on peace and stability in the region could be undermined".

The New York Times

Both of those efforts could be undermined by a prolonged spat with Nicaragua.

The Economist

Dr. Lubchenco also warned that search-and-rescue missions relying on those satellites could be undermined.

The New York Times

But over time, the iPhone could be undermined by its own success.

The New York Times - Tech

"But as this kind of event becomes commonplace, the whole Internet could be undermined".

The New York Times - Tech

Ultimately, he said, the project's viability could be undermined by changing weather patterns and improved technology.

The Guardian

Hers is a conviction that could be undermined only in the realm of fiction.

The New York Times - Magazine

Both could be undermined if teachers are transformed into de facto adjuncts of the police.

The Guardian - Opinion

The corporation was crucial because it was the vehicle through which the republic could be undermined by princes of industry.

Columbia University

They feared that their security could be undermined if France, Germany and Russia revived a policy of spheres of influence.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the subtle differences in meaning between "could be undermined" and its alternatives, such as "could be jeopardized" or "could be compromised", to choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.

Common error

While "could be undermined" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make your writing seem vague or indirect. Consider rephrasing to use an active voice construction where appropriate for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be undermined" functions as a passive construction, indicating a potential action that might weaken or destabilize a subject. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

19%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could be undermined" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey the potential weakening or destabilization of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is correct and versatile, finding frequent use in contexts ranging from news and media to academic and scientific discussions. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the context clearly identifies the factors posing a risk and to consider alternatives such as "could be jeopardized" or "could be compromised" to precisely match your intended meaning. Overuse of the passive voice, while grammatically correct, should be avoided to maintain a direct and impactful writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be weakened

Focuses on the reduction of strength or effectiveness.

could be jeopardized

Highlights the risk of failure or loss.

could be compromised

Emphasizes the potential for a negative impact on integrity or quality.

could be threatened

Indicates a potential danger or risk.

could be damaged

Focuses on physical or functional harm.

might be eroded

Suggests a gradual decline or wearing away.

might be subverted

Implies an intention to overthrow or destroy secretly.

might be impaired

Focuses on the reduction in ability or function.

might be destabilized

Highlights the potential for instability or disruption.

might be vitiated

Emphasizes the corruption or invalidation of something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "could be undermined" suggests a potential weakening or damaging of something. For example, "The project's success "could be undermined" by a lack of funding."

What are some alternatives to saying "could be undermined"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "could be jeopardized", "could be compromised", or "could be weakened".

Is it better to use "could be undermined" or "might be undermined"?

Both "could be undermined" and "might be undermined" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the nuance you want to express; "could" suggests possibility, while "might" suggests a slightly lower probability.

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

When something "could be undermined", it means there's a risk or possibility that its strength, effectiveness, or stability will be weakened or damaged. This often implies external factors or actions may negatively impact it.