can only assert that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can only assert that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express a limitation in what you can claim or state about a particular subject. Example: "Based on the available evidence, I can only assert that the results are inconclusive."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Because the signals from the probes do not allow for accurate mapping of the position of a SNP within a probe at the given probe density, we can only assert that somewhere within a probe there is likely a polymorphism.

BMC Genomics

It is tempting to speculate that HGT helped A. oryzae adapt to some new evolutionary niche, but based on our analysis we can only assert that HGT enhanced the hydrolytic and fermentation abilities of this species.

Plosone

Thus, we can only assert that Prosthecobacterial tubulins evolved from within the eukaryotic subtree but the actual scenario for their evolution remains uncertain.

Biology Direct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

This suggests that the additive effects MTC model can readily be used in situations where one can only assert approximate additivity.

Clinical Epidemiology

Today, consumers can only assert their rights after the event, through the rules on liability.

EU Parlament

If the eliminativist thinks that assertion only imposes the aim of expressing a truth, then he can consistently assert that 'know' is a defective term.

SEP

Hence, from our previous considerations, we can assert that (2.15).

Advances in Difference Equations

(iii) It can be asserted that is relatively compact.  .

Advances in Difference Equations

It can be asserted that is relatively compact.

Advances in Difference Equations

I can only admire my fellow New Yorkers who risk life and limb to assert that idea.

The New York Times - Magazine

We assert that is bounded.

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can only assert that" when you want to express a conclusion based on limited evidence or specific constraints. Be clear about the limitations to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "can only assert that" if you possess strong evidence. This phrase is best suited for situations where you want to acknowledge the limitations of your claim. Strong assertions require strong proof.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can only assert that" functions as a hedge, limiting the scope or strength of a claim. It indicates that the speaker or writer is not fully confident in the statement or lacks sufficient evidence to make a stronger assertion, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

22%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can only assert that" is a useful phrase for expressing a qualified statement, indicating a limitation in the evidence or confidence behind a claim. Ludwig's analysis reveals it to be grammatically correct and primarily used in formal and scientific contexts. When employing this phrase, it's important to be mindful of overstating your claims and ensure transparency about the limitations of your assertion. The suggested alternative phrases, such as "can only state that" or "can only suggest that", can help to fine-tune the nuance of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can only state that

Replaces "assert" with the more neutral "state", softening the claim slightly.

can only maintain that

Suggests a continued defense of a position, rather than an initial claim.

can only conclude that

Emphasizes the end result of a thought process or investigation.

can only suggest that

Conveys a weaker level of certainty compared to "assert".

can only surmise that

Implies a conclusion based on limited evidence or guesswork.

can only infer that

Highlights that the conclusion is drawn from reasoning rather than direct evidence.

can only deduce that

Indicates a logical conclusion based on known facts.

can only observe that

Focuses on what can be seen or noticed, rather than a stronger claim.

can only point out that

Highlights a specific fact or detail without necessarily making a broader argument.

can only acknowledge that

Indicates recognition of a fact or situation, without necessarily endorsing it.

FAQs

How can I use "can only assert that" in a sentence?

Use "can only assert that" when you want to express a qualified statement or a conclusion that is based on limited evidence. For instance, "Based on the data, we "can only assert that" there is a correlation, not causation".

What are some alternatives to "can only assert that"?

You can use alternatives like "can only state that", "can only suggest that", or "can only conclude that" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What does "can only assert that" imply about the strength of a statement?

It implies that the statement is made with some reservation or limitation. It indicates that while the assertion is being made, there might be factors preventing a stronger or more definitive claim.

Is it appropriate to use "can only assert that" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate in formal writing, especially when presenting research findings or arguments where limitations need to be acknowledged. It demonstrates intellectual honesty and transparency.