can in practice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can in practice" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to discuss the practical application or feasibility of a concept or idea in real-world situations. Example: "While the theory suggests that this method is effective, it can in practice be challenging to implement in a large organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Sadly, the evidence that development aid can in practice reduce migration flows is thin to non-existent.

The Guardian

At radio wavelengths, the distortions introduced by the atmosphere are less important than at optical wavelengths, and so the theoretical angular resolution of a radio telescope can in practice be achieved even for the largest dimensions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We assessed whether any of the simpler methods can in practice give adequately accurate and reliable results.

Journal of Clinical Epidemiology

However this programme has shown that the effect of plate hardness can in practice be quite significant, to the extent that choosing increased plate hardness can reduce the steepness of the hopper wall needed for reliable discharge and hence the headroom requirement for the vessel.

Tribology International

The pulse artifact can in practice be removed (see above).

Cerebral Cortex

Congress, by initiating constitutional amendments, can in practice reverse decisions of the Supreme Court.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

There are few studies of which values these parameters can take in practice.

European Transport Research Review

Play as hard as you can in practices and in games.

WikiHow

In theory it can, but in practice it won't".

The Guardian

"I can see in practice that his legs are under him and his health is good.

The New York Times - Sports

The democratic structure can also, in practice, come with a lack of expertise.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can in practice", ensure the statement is supported by evidence or examples to enhance credibility. It's crucial to distinguish between theoretical possibilities and actual feasibility.

Common error

Avoid using "can in practice" to suggest feasibility without providing concrete examples or evidence. Overstating the practicality of a concept can undermine your argument and reduce credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can in practice" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, typically indicating the feasibility or realistic possibility of an action or outcome. It often contrasts a theoretical possibility with real-world applicability, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can in practice" is a grammatically correct expression used to denote the feasibility of something in real-world scenarios. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a valid and usable phrase that contrasts theoretical possibilities with practical realities. It is most frequently found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure you can support its claim with evidence to enhance credibility and avoid overstating practicality without concrete examples. Remember that similar phrases such as "is practically possible" can be also viable alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is practically possible

Emphasizes the feasibility of something happening in a real-world context.

is realistically achievable

Focuses on the attainability of a goal or outcome given actual circumstances.

is feasible in reality

Highlights the real-world applicability and workability of a concept.

is actually doable

Uses more informal language to express that something is capable of being done.

can be effectively implemented

Stresses the successful application of a plan or method.

works in the real world

Focuses on practical application rather than theoretical possibility.

is operationally viable

Highlights the feasibility of something within an operational or functional setting.

is pragmatically sound

Emphasizes the practical wisdom and effectiveness of an approach.

is demonstrably possible

Highlights that something is not only possible but it can be also shown or proven.

is functionally applicable

Expresses the feasibility of something in terms of functional use.

FAQs

How can I use "can in practice" in a sentence?

Use "can in practice" to show that something, though perhaps theoretically sound, has real-world applications or limitations. For example, "While the theory is compelling, whether it "can in practice" improve outcomes is yet to be seen."

What are some alternatives to "can in practice"?

You can use alternatives like "is practically possible", "is realistically achievable", or "is feasible in reality" depending on the specific context.

How does "can in theory" differ from "can in practice"?

"Can in theory" refers to a concept that is possible under ideal or hypothetical conditions, while "can in practice" indicates that something is feasible in real-world circumstances, which may include limitations or challenges. The Guardian provides an example, “In theory it can, but "in practice" it won't".

Is it better to use "can in practice" or "is possible in practice"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "can in practice" is generally more concise and commonly used. "Is possible in practice" may be used for emphasis or in contexts where a more formal tone is appropriate.