as it could

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as it could" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the potential or capability of something in a certain context. Example: "She did her best to complete the project as it could be done under the circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As pleasant as it could be, considering".

The New York Times

Not as bad as it could be.

The Guardian

The car had gone as far as it could.

The New Yorker

He pushed it as far as it could go.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It was just as loud as it could be.

Independent

But still not as well as it could be.

The New York Times

But it is not as clean as it could be.

The Economist

"It was fine as long as it could move".

The New York Times

That was as much as it could afford.

The New Yorker

She made it not as bad as it could be".

The New York Times

It's just about as unpleasant as it could be.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as it could", ensure the context clearly establishes the potential or limiting factors being referenced. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "as it could" without clearly defining the scope of what 'it' refers to. Unclear references can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as it could" functions as an adverbial modifier, expressing the extent or degree to which something can be achieved or is possible. As Ludwig AI indicates, it suggests a potential or capability, often limited by certain circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as it could" is a versatile expression used to describe the potential or capability of something within a given context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently across various sources, including news media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. It serves to qualify statements, indicating the extent to which something can be achieved, as the many examples in Ludwig demonstrate. To ensure clarity, always define the scope and limitations when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the best of its ability

Emphasizes the maximum potential or capability in performing an action or achieving a result.

as much as possible

Highlights the extent or degree to which something can be done or achieved.

within the realm of possibility

Focuses on whether something is feasible or achievable given the circumstances.

as far as feasible

Indicates a limit based on practical constraints or limitations.

to the fullest extent possible

Stresses the maximization of effort or outcome within given constraints.

as optimally as possible

Focuses on achieving the best possible outcome under the circumstances.

as effectively as achievable

Highlights the efficiency and effectiveness of an action given certain limitations.

as realistically as one can

Stresses the importance of being practical and grounded in one's approach.

as reasonably as is possible

Indicates a moderate or sensible approach within the limits of possibility.

to the degree practicable

Emphasizes the practicality and feasibility of an action in a given context.

FAQs

How can I use "as it could" in a sentence?

Use "as it could" to indicate that something is being done or considered to the best of its potential under given circumstances. For instance, "She managed the situation as best "as it could" be handled given the limited resources".

What are some alternatives to "as it could"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to the best of its ability", "as much as possible", or "within the realm of possibility". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "as good as it could get"?

Yes, "as good as it could get" is a common idiom expressing that something has reached its maximum potential or quality. It implies that no further improvement is possible or likely.

What's the difference between "as it could" and "as it should"?

"As it could" refers to potential or capability, while "as it should" refers to an expectation or desired state. "As it could" describes what is possible, whereas "as it should" describes what is ideal or correct.