to be compatible with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be compatible with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability of two or more things to work together without conflict or issues. Example: "The new software is designed to be compatible with various operating systems, ensuring a smooth user experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Catalase appeared to be compatible with DMPO.

Water Research

Dance music has proved to be compatible with nearly anyone.

The New Yorker

Products need to be compatible with their environment.

Electromagnetics Explained A Handbook for Wireless-Rf, EMC, and High-Speed Electronics

This is not seen to be compatible with a process of reconciliation.

The Guardian

Microsoft now says it plans for Passport to be compatible with authentication software from other suppliers.

The New York Times

If it reaches the market, the format is supposed to be compatible with Wi-Fi.

The New York Times

"They want their investments to be compatible with their climate goals," says Avalos.

The Guardian

And any London home would have to be compatible with the solution adopted here.

The New York Times - Arts

These appliances are designed to be compatible with and efficient in solar-powered houses.

The New York Times

5) Try to use public-domain encryption that has to be compatible with other implementations.

The Guardian

Many high-tech products need to be compatible with a network of users.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be compatible with", ensure that you clearly define what two or more things are working together to achieve. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid making vague assertions about compatibility without specifying the aspects or systems involved. Instead of saying 'This software is compatible', state 'This software is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be compatible with" functions as a linking phrase, describing the relationship between two entities, emphasizing their ability to coexist or work together without conflict. As per Ludwig, the phrase is valid and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be compatible with" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the harmonious coexistence or proper functioning of two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage across diverse fields, including science, technology, and interpersonal relations. While its meaning is generally clear, it's important to specify what exactly is compatible to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like ""to be consistent with"" or ""to align with"" can be used to express similar ideas, but they emphasize different aspects of the relationship. Given its frequency and broad applicability, mastering the use of "to be compatible with" is valuable for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be interoperable with

Focuses specifically on the ability of systems or components to work together, especially in technology.

to be consistent with

Highlights the logical agreement or coherence between different elements or ideas.

to be congruent with

Emphasizes a precise match or correspondence, often used in mathematical or geometric contexts.

to be coherent with

Implies a logical and orderly relationship, ensuring that different parts fit together harmoniously.

to be consonant with

Suggests agreement or harmony, particularly in abstract or conceptual domains.

to be suitable for

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

to be compliant with

Stresses adherence to rules, standards, or regulations.

to be in accordance with

Highlights conformity to a set of principles, rules or guidelines.

to align with

Focuses on the process of adjustment or arrangement to achieve a harmonious or cooperative state.

to harmonize with

Indicates a blending or integration of elements to create a pleasing or balanced outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "to be compatible with" in a sentence?

You can use "to be compatible with" to describe how well two or more things work together. For example, "The new app is designed "to be compatible with" older smartphones".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "to be compatible with"?

Some alternatives include "to be consistent with", "to be suitable for", or "to align with", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to specify what something is compatible with?

Yes, it's generally best practice to specify what something is compatible with to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The device is compatible", specify "The device is "to be compatible with" Bluetooth 5.0".

How does "to be compatible with" differ from "to be consistent with"?

"To be compatible with" implies the ability to function together, while ""to be consistent with"" suggests logical agreement or coherence. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing functionality or alignment of principles.