it could be changed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it could be changed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the possibility of altering something, whether it's a plan, document, or situation. Example: "The proposal is not final; it could be changed based on feedback from the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

"Actually, it could be changed," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

I had thought that it could be changed, but it couldn't, so I dissolved the relationship".

The New Yorker

But, once the consumer had set a quota, it could be changed only in writing — with a month's notice.

The New Yorker

"I do recognize the difficulties for these players to travel, but it could be changed in the future".

The New York Times - Sports

But, once the consumer had set a quota, it could be changed only in writing with a month's notice.

The New Yorker

Although voters have approved the current law in two referendums, it could be changed by the City Council.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

But it said the terms could be changed later: "It is not a continuing obligation or restriction on the authority of the secretary".

The New York Times

G.M. says it has always made it clear that these benefits could be changed.

The New York Times

It means that their priorities could be changed particularly when the factors are time-dependent.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

If anything about the process could be changed it would probably be a simplification of the eligibility criteria.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

This could be changed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it could be changed", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader.

Common error

While "it could be changed" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider using an active voice construction if appropriate, like "we could change it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it could be changed" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a possibility or potential for modification. As seen in Ludwig, the phrase indicates that something is not fixed and is open to alteration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it could be changed" is a versatile expression used to indicate the potential for modification or alteration. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it's grammatically correct and frequently used in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While its register leans toward neutral to professional, it's important to consider the specific context when choosing this phrase. Alternatives like "it might be altered" or "it may be modified" offer subtle shifts in meaning and formality. As a writer, be mindful of potential ambiguity and avoid overusing the passive voice to maintain a strong and clear writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might be altered

Replaces "could" with "might", suggesting a slightly lower probability or degree of certainty.

it may be modified

Substitutes "could" with "may", and "changed" with "modified", indicating a formal tone and possibility of adjustment.

it can be adjusted

Replaces "could" with "can", focusing on the inherent ability to be adjusted.

it is subject to change

Shifts the focus to the characteristic of being changeable rather than the act of changing.

it is liable to alteration

Emphasizes the probability or risk of being changed.

it is open to modification

Highlights the accessibility of the item to be changed and that modifications are allowed.

it's possible to revise it

Indicates the act of reviewing and improving something.

it is reformable

Suggests that the thing being changed has flaws that need correcting.

alterations are possible

This is a more concise way to express that modifications or alterations are viable or achievable.

adjustments can be made

This alternative highlights the action of making adjustments rather than focusing on the possibility of alteration.

FAQs

How can I use "it could be changed" in a sentence?

Use "it could be changed" to express the possibility of modifying something. For example, "The design is not final; "it could be changed" based on user feedback".

What are some alternatives to "it could be changed"?

Alternatives include "it might be altered", "it may be modified", or "it can be adjusted", each suggesting different levels of certainty and formality.

Is it better to say "it could be changed" or "it can be changed"?

"It could be changed" implies a possibility, while "it can be changed" suggests an inherent ability or permission. The best choice depends on the specific context.

How formal is the phrase "it could be changed"?

The phrase "it could be changed" is suitable for neutral to formal contexts. For more casual situations, you might prefer alternatives like "it can be adjusted".