"can halt" vs "can be halted"

Question

"can halt" vs "can be halted"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Can halt' is used when referring to the ability of something to stop or pause, while 'can be halted' is used when describing the possibility of something being stopped by an external force or action.

Last Updated: March 06, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate the capability of something to come to a stop or pause. It implies that the subject has the ability to halt on its own.

Examples:

The train can halt at the next station.
The program can halt execution at any point.
The car can halt suddenly in case of an emergency.

Alternatives:

can stop
can pause
can come to a halt
can cease

This phrase is used to indicate that something has the potential to be stopped or paused by an external force or action. It implies that the subject is not halting on its own but can be made to halt.

Examples:

The project can be halted if necessary.
The spread of the virus can be halted with proper measures.
The production line can be halted for maintenance.

Alternatives:

can be stopped
can be paused
can be brought to a halt
can be ceased

Answer 1

can halt

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to the ability of something to stop or pause.

Answer 2

can be halted

This phrase is correct and commonly used when describing the possibility of something being stopped by an external force or action.

"can halt" vs "can be halted"

can halt

can be halted

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