although one might expect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "although one might expect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrast or an unexpected outcome in a discussion or argument. Example: "Although one might expect the results to be positive, the study revealed surprising negative outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

On the other hand, although one might expect that individuals with COPD would show an increased susceptibility to cold temperatures, we were unable to replicate that finding from Schwartz (2005b), perhaps because we identified COPD from death certificates, whereas he identified subjects with COPD noted on hospital discharge records.

Environmental Health Perspectives

A more recent study focused on the clinical laboratories themselves and, although one might expect academic laboratories to be rather proficient in the implementation of the EIA kits, that was not the case [ 12].

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Although one might expect charge separation to be dependent on the NR length, we do not observe length dependence for type-I NRs.

ACS Nano

Although one might expect chopsticks, Western spoons and forks are the cutlery of choice.

The New York Times

Therefore, although one might expect to see significant changes in radial diffusivity because of demyelination, the pattern of changes in brain white matter microstructure associated with chronic ketamine use is likely to be more complex.

Nature

Although one might expect the same distribution for the CeO2 phase (due to co-impregnation method used for the preparation of the CeO2 ZrO2/Al2O3 support), that is not the case.

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

A full review of their association is beyond the scope of this review, although given their association with FTD, one might expect that they would result in a blending of FTD symptomatology with prototypic AD.

Alzheimer's Research and Therapy

Because of its intimate size, the layout of the ship is easy to master although public spaces, as one might expect, are more limited.

Huffington Post

Flitting provocatively from topic to topic, Mr. Harford explains why gargantuan executive salaries make sense, although not in the way one might expect, and why a booming service economy indicates economic sophistication, not decadence.

The New York Times - Books

The impact has been profound and essential, although not in the way one might expect.

Los Angeles Times

It's a source of no small irony to read George Orwell's essays in the closing days of this election season -- although not for the reasons one might expect.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "although one might expect" to introduce a situation where the actual outcome is different from what is commonly predicted or assumed. This adds a layer of nuance to your writing, signaling to the reader that a contrast is coming.

Common error

Avoid using "although one might expect" in sentences where the contrast is already obvious or trivial. This phrase is most effective when the expected outcome is genuinely plausible, making the actual outcome more impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "although one might expect" functions as a concessive conjunction, introducing a subordinate clause that presents a contrast or contradiction to the main clause. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity, indicating its role in setting up unexpected outcomes or deviations from anticipated scenarios.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "although one might expect" serves as a valuable tool for introducing unexpected twists and deviations from common assumptions. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and frequently employed across diverse contexts such as science, news, and encyclopedias. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal writing. When using this phrase, ensure the contrast is significant enough to warrant its use, avoiding overuse in simplistic scenarios. Consider related phrases like "even though it may seem" or "contrary to expectation" for variety. The frequency of its use in authoritative sources reinforces its reliability and effectiveness in written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even though it may seem

Replaces the conditional "might expect" with a more direct statement of possibility.

despite what one would assume

Focuses on the contrast between an assumption and reality.

contrary to expectation

A more formal and concise way of expressing the unexpected outcome.

against all odds

Emphasizes the improbability of the actual outcome.

in defiance of anticipation

Highlights a direct contradiction of what was anticipated.

unconventionally

Indicates a departure from typical or expected behavior.

surprisingly

A simpler adverb to denote unexpectedness.

unexpectedly

Similar to "surprisingly" but can apply to a wider range of contexts.

it may be surprising that

This version introduces a sense of wonder or disbelief at the contrary outcome.

though it could have been anticipated

This expression highlights the sense of prior expectancy and the subsequent divergence from it.

FAQs

How can I use "although one might expect" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to introduce a contrast between what seems likely or predictable and what is actually the case. For example: "Although one might expect rain, the day turned out sunny."

What phrases are similar to "although one might expect"?

Alternatives include "even though it may seem", "despite what one would assume", or "contrary to expectation".

Is "although one might expect" formal or informal?

This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it leans slightly towards formal due to its structure and vocabulary. You can use it safely in academic papers, news articles, or general writing.

What's the difference between "although one might expect" and "though it could have been anticipated"?

While both introduce a contrast, "although one might expect" is a general statement of expectation. "Though it could have been anticipated" emphasizes that the expectation was reasonable or justified beforehand.