can change that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can change that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to alter a situation or outcome. Example: "If we work together, we can change that and improve our results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We can change that".

The New York Times

No bomb can change that".

The New Yorker

Only she can change that perception.

The New York Times

Hopefully we can change that".

The Guardian - Sport

Only he can change that".

The New York Times

"Maybe this week I can change that".

The New York Times - Sports

But Phillips can change that landscape.

The New York Times - Sports

No one can change that perception.

The New York Times

Do you really think the U.S. can change that?

The New York Times

"According to our numbers, nothing can change that".

The New York Times

This is his history and no one can change that".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to convey a more robust approach, consider replacing it with "are able to change that" or "have the power to change that" to emphasize capabilities.

Common error

Avoid using "can change that" when referring to events or facts that are inherently unchangeable. For example, stating "we can change that the past happened" is illogical; use it only for modifiable circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can change that" functions as a modal phrase expressing the ability or potential to alter a specific situation or condition. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can change that" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that conveys the ability or potential to alter a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various sources, especially in News & Media. The phrase serves to express hope, propose solutions, or assert the power to influence outcomes. While it is suitable for neutral and general contexts, it is important to use it appropriately, avoiding instances where the situation is inherently unchangeable. Considering related phrases like "can alter that" or "can modify that" can also add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can alter that

Replaces "change" with "alter", emphasizing a modification.

can modify that

Substitutes "change" with "modify", suggesting a more controlled adjustment.

are able to change that

Adds "are able to" for emphasis on the capability.

can reverse that

Uses "reverse" instead of "change", indicating a return to a previous state.

can transform that

Employs "transform" suggesting a more significant alteration.

have the power to change that

Emphasizes the authority or capability to make the alteration.

can improve upon that

Focuses on enhancement rather than mere alteration.

can influence that

Suggests the ability to have an impact on something

can have an impact on that

Highlights the impact or effect on something, not necessarily complete alteration

can turn that around

Suggests reversing a negative situation or trend.

FAQs

How can I use "can change that" in a sentence?

You can use "can change that" to express the possibility of altering a situation. For example, "If we work together, we "can change that" and improve our results."

What can I say instead of "can change that"?

You can use alternatives like "can alter that", "can modify that", or "can transform that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can change that" or "can changed that"?

"Can change that" is correct. "Can" is a modal verb, and it's always followed by the base form of the verb (change), not the past participle (changed).

What's the difference between "can change that" and "could change that"?

"Can change that" implies a present or future possibility, while "could change that" often suggests a hypothetical or past possibility.