it can be powered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can be powered" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the capability of a device or system to be energized or operated by a power source. Example: "This device is versatile; it can be powered by either batteries or a direct electrical connection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

In emergencies it can be powered for 24 hours from a car battery.

The Guardian

The USD100 laptop does not even need electricity, since it can be powered by vigorous cranking.

The Guardian

Where there is no electricity infrastructure, it can be powered by diesel generators or solar cells.

The Washington Post

Fusion produces no long-lived radioactivity, and it can be powered by a form of hydrogen found in sea water.

The New York Times

The detector can even be used outside the laboratory because it can be powered by a standard 9-V battery.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

The team's design formula was simple: make the car extremely light and aerodynamic, so that it can be powered by a small 250 cc, single-piston motorcycle engine.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It's $19 and can be powered by three AA batteries or via USB.

TechCrunch

Both strategies can be power hogs.

The New York Times - Tech

But simplicity can be power.

The New York Times - Travel

Sometimes, money can be power.

MIT Technology Review

It can also be powered using a hand-cranked power supply.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a device's versatility, specify multiple power sources using "it can be powered by X, Y, or Z" to showcase its adaptability.

Common error

While grammatically sound, relying heavily on passive voice (like "it can be powered") can make your writing seem less direct. Opt for active voice when possible, such as "X powers it" for a more engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be powered" functions as a passive construction indicating the potential for something to receive power and operate. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, suggesting it describes a capability or option.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

35%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it can be powered" serves to describe something's capability of being energized or operated. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this grammatically correct phrase commonly appears in News & Media and Science contexts, with neutral register. While versatile, overuse of the passive voice should be avoided to maintain a direct and engaging tone. Consider alternatives like ""it can run on"" or stating the power source directly for conciseness. When writing, specify all possible power sources. This information should help enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it can run on

Replaces "be powered" with a more direct verb phrase indicating operation.

it is capable of being powered

Adds a layer of formality by using "capable of being".

it can draw power from

Focuses on the source of the power.

it is designed to be powered by

Highlights the intended power source through design.

it may be energized by

Replaces "can" with "may" and "powered" with "energized" to suggest possibility.

it operates on

Simplifies the phrase by focusing on the operation process.

it is driven by

Implies a more forceful or mechanical powering.

it accepts power from

Highlights the acceptance of power from an external source.

it is fueled by

Suggests the use of fuel as the power source.

it derives its power from

Emphasizes the derivation of power from a specific origin.

FAQs

What does "it can be powered" mean?

The phrase "it can be powered" means that something has the ability or capability to receive energy and operate. This often refers to devices or systems that need electricity or another form of energy to function.

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

You can use "it can be powered" to describe the power source of a device. For example, "The device "can be powered" by batteries or an AC adapter."

What's a more concise alternative to "it can be powered"?

Alternatives include "it can run on", "it operates on", or simply stating the power source directly, such as "it uses batteries."

Is "it can be powered by" the same as "it is powered by"?

Not exactly. "It can be powered by" indicates a capability or option, while "it is powered by" states the current or default power source. For example, "It can be powered by solar energy" suggests an option, whereas "it is powered by solar energy" indicates the device is currently using solar energy.