it can be modified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can be modified" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to change or alter something, such as a document, design, or process. Example: "The software is user-friendly, and it can be modified to suit individual preferences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nothing about it can be modified without destroying its logical structure.

The New Yorker

It remains to be seen whether the gene works on humans, and whether it can be modified to avoid its sometime side effects, which include skin cancer.

The New York Times - Health

Its Dragon capsule has been designed in such a way that it can be modified to eventually carry humans.

BBC

But it can be modified to do so.

University of California, Berkeley

It can be modified, both with antibiotics and with transplants.

The Economist

The design appears on the sewing machine's touch screen, where it can be modified.

The New York Times - Tech

Under Stallman's definition, software is free if it can be modified and distributed freely.

MIT Technology Review

Built in Turkey, it can be modified to run on alternative fuels.

The New York Times

"To demonstrate that it's not a holy principle and it can be modified, varied, mitigated and possibly reversed".

The New York Times

Adaptable -- it can be modified to meet special needs, like making more than one stop on a trip.

The New York Times

In theory, this means it can be modified to kill the mosquito or prevent it from transmitting malaria.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it can be modified", clearly state what "it" refers to and what the modification entails to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it can be modified" without a clear antecedent for "it". Ensure the reader knows exactly what is being discussed to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be modified" functions as a statement of capability or possibility. It indicates that a particular subject is capable of being altered or changed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

29%

News & Media

49%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it can be modified" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that expresses the capability of something to be altered. Ludwig's analysis shows its prevalence across various contexts, including science, news, and academia, highlighting its versatility. While generally neutral in tone, clarifying the subject of "it" and the nature of the modification enhances clarity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and well-suited for conveying adaptability and flexibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it can be altered

A direct synonym, stressing the possibility of alteration.

it can be adapted

Similar to "it is adaptable" but emphasizes the action of adapting.

it can be adjusted

Focuses on the process of making adjustments to achieve a desired state.

it is alterable

A formal way of saying that something can be altered or changed.

it is changeable

Emphasizes the potential for change, suggesting that alterations are possible.

it is adjustable

Highlights the ease with which something can be adjusted to a desired setting or requirement.

it is adaptable

Focuses on the inherent quality of being able to adapt to different conditions or uses.

it is customizable

Stresses the ability to tailor something to specific needs or preferences.

it is reconfigurable

Highlights the ability to change the configuration or arrangement of something.

it is malleable

Implies a capacity to be easily shaped or influenced, often referring to abstract concepts.

FAQs

How can I use "it can be modified" in a sentence?

Use "it can be modified" when you want to indicate that something is not fixed and has the potential to be changed or altered. For example, "The software is flexible; "it can be modified" to suit different business needs".

What are some alternatives to saying "it can be modified"?

You can use alternatives such as "it can be adapted", "it can be adjusted", or "it is changeable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it can be modified" formal or informal?

"It can be modified" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "it is alterable" may be preferred in highly formal writing.

What's the difference between "it can be modified" and "it must be modified"?

"It can be modified" indicates a possibility or potential for change, while "it must be modified" indicates a necessity or requirement for change. The former suggests flexibility, whereas the latter implies a mandatory action.