can do well

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can do well" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase in a variety of contexts. For example, "With enough practice, I'm sure you can do well on the test."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We can do well better".

The New York Times

The Brits can do well in it.

Independent

I know what I can do well.

The Guardian

I think I can do well there.

The New York Times - Sports

We can do well by our users".

The Guardian - Tech

Hopefully I can do well at Wimbledon".

The Guardian - Sport

So I know I can do well".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"If I can step on the track I know I can do well," she insisted.

The Guardian - Sport

With in-demand skills, you can do well.

Forbes

Hopefully they can do well in the Europa League".

The Guardian - Sport

Popping out can do well in a short story; here it wears thin.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can do well" when you want to express confidence in someone's ability to succeed in a specific task or situation. It implies both competence and a positive outcome.

Common error

While "can do well" is perfectly acceptable, consider using more sophisticated vocabulary in formal contexts. Options like "excel", "prosper", or "achieve proficiency" often add nuance and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can do well" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the ability or potential to achieve a positive outcome or perform effectively. As Ludwig shows, it appears in contexts where someone's capability or prospects for success are being discussed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can do well" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating the ability or potential to succeed. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and applicable across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general conversation. While suitable for many situations, consider more sophisticated alternatives like "excel" or "prosper" in formal writing. The frequency analysis indicates that it is most frequently used in News & Media. By understanding its function and appropriate usage, you can effectively incorporate "can do well" into your writing to express confidence and positive expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to succeed

Focuses on the ability to achieve a positive outcome.

likely to prosper

Emphasizes the probability of thriving or flourishing.

capable of excellence

Highlights the potential for outstanding performance.

equipped for success

Stresses the preparedness and resources available for a favorable result.

set to flourish

Suggests a trajectory towards growth and positive development.

have the potential to excel

Highlights inherent abilities and the possibility of surpassing expectations.

be competent

Focuses on having the necessary skills and knowledge.

perform effectively

Emphasizes the practical application of skills and achieving desired results.

achieve proficiency

Highlights the attainment of a high level of skill or expertise.

make good progress

Focuses on advancement and positive development over time.

FAQs

How can I use "can do well" in a sentence?

You can use "can do well" to express confidence in someone's ability to succeed, like in the sentence "With enough practice, I'm sure you "can do well" on the test."

What are some alternatives to "can do well"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "able to succeed", "likely to prosper", or "capable of excellence".

Is it correct to say "can do good" instead of "can do well"?

While "can do good" is also a valid phrase, it has a different meaning. It refers to performing morally right actions or contributing to the well-being of others, whereas "can do well" refers to competence and success in a specific endeavor.

What's the difference between "can do well" and "will do well"?

"Can do well" indicates the ability or potential to succeed, while "will do well" expresses a stronger degree of certainty or prediction about future success. The first focuses on capability, while the second suggests a likely outcome.