can be presumed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be presumed" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is assumed to be true based on available evidence or reasoning. Example: "Given the circumstances, it can be presumed that the project will be completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The information required by a cyberterrorist can be presumed to be of varying degrees of sophistication, but generally available.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

When a person is quick with a "banana stand" joke, it can be presumed they're a fellow traveler.

The New York Times

In either case, the father can be presumed to be providing at least some support already, so any economic gains through marriage would probably be marginal.

The New York Times

But one person can be presumed to have a sympathetic understanding of the teenager's situation, and a respect for the person he is speaking to.

University of California, Berkeley

The third-party beneficiary's reliance upon the performance of the promisor thus can be presumed in creditor beneficiary cases, due to the nature of the transaction.

Harvard University

"These results are inconsistent with a simple theory in which corporate political activity can be presumed to serve the interests of shareholders," Mr. Coates wrote.

The New York Times

Damian Collins, the Tory MP who is campaigning for a reform of Fifa, said: "This makes Fifa's claim that Jack Warner can be presumed innocent absolutely incredible.

Independent

Since both groups can be presumed to be more likely to vote yes, they could make a big difference to the outcome.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This makes Fifa's claim that Warner can be presumed innocent absolutely incredible," he said.

BBC

Therefore, the water can be presumed to have played a role in the viscosity reduction.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

When verification and accountability exists, it can be presumed that harmful behaviors such as abuse and trolling will curb.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be presumed" when you have a reasonable basis for an assumption, but lack definitive proof. This phrasing is appropriate in formal writing where precision is important.

Common error

Avoid using "can be presumed" when the assumption is highly speculative or lacks a credible basis. Ensure your assumption is grounded in available evidence to maintain the integrity of your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be presumed" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a reasoned assumption or inference. As Ludwig AI points out, this is generally deemed grammatically correct and acceptable. The examples show how it introduces statements considered true based on available evidence, without necessarily having definitive proof.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

37%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be presumed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to introduce assumptions or inferences based on available evidence. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly employed across various contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related domains. The usage examples highlight its function in presenting reasonable beliefs or expectations. While versatile, ensure the assumption is grounded in credible evidence to avoid speculative claims. Consider alternatives like "it is likely" or "it is reasonable to assume" depending on the level of formality required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is reasonable to assume

Emphasizes the logic or reason behind the assumption, highlighting its justification.

it is fair to assume

Suggests that the assumption is not only logical but also equitable or just.

one might assume

Introduces a degree of uncertainty, suggesting the assumption is one possibility among others.

it is safe to say

Indicates a high level of confidence in the assumption, suggesting minimal risk in making it.

it is likely

Focuses on the probability of the assumption being true, rather than the act of presuming.

it is probable

Similar to "it is likely" but suggests a slightly higher degree of certainty.

it stands to reason

Highlights the logical connection that supports the assumption, implying a natural consequence.

we can infer

Indicates that the conclusion is derived from evidence or reasoning, rather than a general assumption.

it is understood

Suggests that the assumption is based on common knowledge or a shared understanding.

it is taken for granted

Indicates that the assumption is so widely accepted that it is not questioned or challenged.

FAQs

How do I use "can be presumed" in a sentence?

Use "can be presumed" to indicate an assumption that is likely true based on the available evidence. For example: "Given the data, it "can be presumed" that the project will be completed on time."

What's a good alternative to "can be presumed"?

Alternatives include "it is likely", "it is reasonable to assume", or "one might assume". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of certainty you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to say "can be presumed" or "can be assumed"?

"Can be presumed" and "can be assumed" are often interchangeable, but "can be presumed" carries a slightly more formal tone, suggesting a legal or official context. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when choosing between them.

When is it inappropriate to use "can be presumed"?

Avoid using "can be presumed" when the assumption is purely speculative or lacks any factual basis. Make sure your assumption is grounded in evidence or logical reasoning to maintain credibility.