it can be set

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'it can be set' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express the possibility of something being established or arranged, as in the following example: We have agreed to the terms of the contract - now it can be set in writing.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

With its easel back, it can be set up on a table; $149.95 at Sharper Image, www.sharperimage.com.com

The New York Times - Style

It can be set to 7 different settings for drainage of CSF where the opening pressure for each valve setting varies from 26 mmH2O (setting 1) to 247 mmH2O (setting 7) at a flow rate of 20 mL/h.

Fluids and Barriers of the CNS

That it can be set up for one-button popping means its idiot-proof.

TechCrunch

Because it can be set up.

The New York Times

Now it can be set up and sent in seconds.

The Guardian - Business

It can be set to receive calls from anyone, no one, or only from specified callers.

The New York Times

It can be set up instantly and accessed from any mobile handset.

The Economist

The way it is built, it can be set down, plugged in and played.

The New York Times

It can be set so one Boom plays the left channel, the other the right.

The New York Times

It can result from natural causes, such as lightning, or it can be set by humans.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Setting it right, if it can be set right, will be the work of a generation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and purpose when choosing between "it can be set" and more formal alternatives like "it can be configured". The level of formality should align with the overall tone of the writing.

Common error

A common mistake is using "it can be set" without a clear antecedent for 'it'. Always ensure that 'it' refers to a specific, identifiable object or concept in the preceding context to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be set" primarily functions as a passive construction, indicating the possibility or ability for something to be configured or adjusted. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from technical settings to general configurations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it can be set" is a versatile and commonly used passive construction that indicates the possibility of configuring or adjusting something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. It’s crucial to ensure clarity by explicitly defining what 'it' refers to, and to choose alternative phrases like "it can be configured" for more formal settings. Ludwig's examples showcase the phrase's prevalence in News & Media and Science, reinforcing its suitability for both general and professional communication. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "it can be set" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it can be configured

Replaces 'set' with 'configured', emphasizing the act of adjusting settings.

it can be customized

Replaces 'set' with 'customized', highlighting the act of tailoring to specific needs or preferences.

it can be adjusted

Substitutes 'set' with 'adjusted', highlighting the act of fine-tuning or modifying.

it is possible to set

Adds 'possible' to express the potential or capability of setting something.

it can be arranged

Uses 'arranged' instead of 'set', focusing on the organization or placement of something.

it is able to be set

Uses 'able' to indicate the capacity or possibility of something being set.

it can be prepared

Replaces 'set' with 'prepared', suggesting readiness or anticipation for a specific purpose.

it can be established

Uses 'established' in place of 'set', emphasizing the act of founding or creating something.

it can be initialized

Replaces 'set' with 'initialized', often used in technical contexts to indicate starting or configuring a system.

it can be programmed

Substitutes 'set' with 'programmed', emphasizing the act of coding or instructing a system.

FAQs

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

The phrase "it can be set" is used to indicate that something is capable of being configured or adjusted. For example, "The timer "it can be set" to go off after 30 minutes".

What's a more formal alternative to "it can be set"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "it can be configured" or "it can be adjusted" depending on the specific context.

How does "it can be set" differ from "it is set"?

"It can be set" implies a possibility or capability, while "it is set" indicates a current state. "The alarm "it can be set" for any time" suggests flexibility, whereas "The alarm is set for 6 AM" indicates a fixed arrangement.

Is "it can be set up" the same as "it can be set"?

While similar, "it can be set up" often implies a more involved process of preparation or installation compared to the more general "it can be set". For instance, "The equipment it can be set up in minutes" suggests assembly is required.