is compatible with

USAGE SUMMARY

"is compatible with" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe something that fits or goes together well with something else. Example: This laptop model is compatible with a variety of peripherals.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Alkaptonuria is compatible with normal life expectancy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Neither version is compatible with older cartridges.

The New York Times - Tech

It is compatible with LaTeX2e.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It is compatible with many weather instruments.

The New York Times

Live Presentations is compatible with PowerPoint files.

The New York Times - Tech

Whether technology is compatible with privacy Absolutely.

The Guardian

It is compatible with Windows XP and Vista.

The New York Times

The scanner is compatible with standard applications like Microsoft Outlook.

The New York Times - Tech

The system is compatible with PC's and Macintosh computers.

The New York Times - Tech

This is compatible with a "modern, liberal democracy", he said.

The Guardian

PPE is compatible with polystyrene (PS).

The Effect of Creep and Other Time Related Factors on Plastics and Elastomers

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is compatible with", clearly specify both elements that are being compared for compatibility to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "It is compatible", specify "This software is compatible with Windows 10".

Common error

Ensure the subject agrees in number with the verb. It's a common mistake to use "are" instead of "is" when the subject is singular. For example, correct: "This device is compatible with most smartphones." Incorrect: "This device are compatible with most smartphones."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is compatible with" functions as a relational adjective phrase, indicating a state of agreement or harmonious coexistence between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI describes, the phrase indicates something that fits or goes together well with something else. This compatibility can be technical, functional, or conceptual, as showcased by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

30%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is compatible with" is a common and versatile expression used to describe the harmonious coexistence or effective interaction between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans across various contexts, from technical specifications to abstract concepts, maintaining a generally neutral to formal tone.

Based on Ludwig's examples, it is particularly prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources, reflecting its importance in conveying interoperability and suitability. When using "is compatible with", ensure clarity by specifying the elements being compared and maintaining subject-verb agreement. By understanding its function and typical contexts, writers can effectively utilize "is compatible with" to communicate relationships between different elements in a clear and precise manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is designed to work with

Highlights a specific purpose of interoperability or integration.

works well with

A more general and less formal way of indicating good interaction or combination.

is consistent with

Focuses on the absence of contradictions or discrepancies.

is engineered for

Implies a deliberate design for interoperability or integration.

is suitable for

Indicates that something is appropriate or fitting for a particular purpose or situation.

is well-matched with

Highlights the idea of a good pairing or combination, often in terms of aesthetics or function.

is in harmony with

Emphasizes agreement or pleasing combination, rather than technical compatibility.

is congruent with

Suggests a structural or logical consistency, often used in mathematical or philosophical contexts.

is in agreement with

Focuses on alignment or consensus, suitable for abstract concepts or opinions.

is attuned to

Implies a sensitivity and responsiveness, often used in the context of personal or emotional connections.

FAQs

How do I use "is compatible with" in a sentence?

Use "is compatible with" to indicate that two or more things can work together effectively. For instance, "This software "is compatible with" older operating systems" shows the software functions well with older systems.

What phrases can I use instead of "is compatible with"?

Alternatives include "works well with", "is suitable for", or "is consistent with". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "compatible with" or "compatible to"?

"Compatible with" is the correct and commonly accepted form. "Compatible to" is generally considered incorrect. Always use the preposition "with" after "compatible".

What does it mean when something is "not compatible with" something else?

If something is "not compatible with" something else, it means they cannot work together effectively or are not designed to function together without issues. For example, "This app "is not compatible with" older phone models" implies the app will not function correctly, or at all, on those phones.