features can be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "features can be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential characteristics or attributes of something, often in a technical or descriptive context. Example: "The software's features can be customized to meet the specific needs of the user."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Extensive array of features can be distracting.

The New York Times - Tech

But both features can be adjusted.

Harvard Business Review

"The features can be reconstructed just like plastic surgery".

The New York Times

"But none of the features can be taken for granted".

The New York Times

Such features can be of sand or shingle (pebbles).

Britannica

These features can be used to distinguish SEs from TEs.

Nature

Very few features can be identified in Thick-Al images.

Harvard University

Full details on its features can be found here.

Cornell University

The features can be any combinations of LBPs.

Expert Systems with Applications

These features can be more distinct in memory structures.

Physica B: Condensed Matter

"A head with eroded features can be repaired," Dr. Metha said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a product or system, use "features can be" to highlight customizable or adaptable elements. For instance, "The software's features can be tailored to individual user preferences."

Common error

Avoid consistently using "features can be" in a way that obscures who or what is performing the action. Instead of "The settings can be adjusted", consider "Users can adjust the settings" for clearer, more direct writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "features can be" primarily functions as a descriptive element, highlighting the potential or capability of something. As Ludwig AI points out, it's used to discuss attributes that are customizable or adaptable. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in technical and descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

33%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "features can be" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, primarily functioning to describe potential attributes or capabilities. As highlighted by Ludwig, it finds common usage in science, news media, and academic contexts. The phrase is considered correct, as noted by Ludwig AI, and while generally neutral, it can adopt a more formal tone in scientific writing. When using "features can be", it's beneficial to maintain clarity and avoid overuse of the passive voice for a more impactful and direct writing style. Alternative phrases such as "characteristics may be" or "attributes are able to be" can provide variety while conveying similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

characteristics may be

Replaces "features" with a synonym and "can" with a weaker modal verb.

attributes are able to be

Substitutes "features" with "attributes" and restructures the modal verb phrase.

properties might be

Replaces "features" and modifies the modal verb for a less assertive tone.

aspects could be

Replaces "features" and uses a different modal verb to indicate possibility.

qualities are capable of being

Substitutes "features" with "qualities" and restructures the modal verb phrase.

elements are able to be

Replaces "features" with "elements" while maintaining the ability concept.

functionalities might be

Substitutes "features" with "functionalities" indicating a specific type of attribute and modifies the modal verb.

capabilities could be

Replaces "features" with "capabilities" while maintaining the possibility concept.

advantages can be

Replaces "features" with "advantages" focusing on positive aspects.

strengths may be

Replaces "features" with "strengths" emphasizing beneficial qualities and "can" with a weaker modal verb.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "features can be" to sound more active?

Consider using phrases like "users can utilize the features", "developers can implement the features", or "the system offers these features" for a more active voice.

Is it grammatically correct to say "features can be"?

Yes, "features can be" is grammatically correct. It's commonly used to describe the potential or ability of something to exhibit certain characteristics or functionalities, as shown by Ludwig.

What is a more formal alternative to "features can be"?

In formal contexts, you might use phrases such as "characteristics may be", "attributes are able to be", or "properties might be" /s/properties+might+be to maintain a professional tone.

When is it appropriate to use "features can be" in writing?

"Features can be" is appropriate when describing the potential functionalities or customizable aspects of a product, system, or concept. For example, "The user interface "can be customized" to improve accessibility."