can only be assumed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can only be assumed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that a conclusion or belief is based on inference rather than direct evidence. Example: "Given the lack of evidence, the outcome can only be assumed to be unfavorable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

It can only be assumed that Gulati is looking around.

The New York Times - Sports

She spoke so highly of Farrell that it can only be assumed that.

The Guardian - Books

It can only be assumed that Lennon offered at least an equally strong post-match critique directly to his team.

The Guardian - Sport

Once again, it can only be assumed that the prize committee must have had some inkling of what was coming.

The Guardian - Books

Therefore, the described hydration phenomena can only be assumed to be the reason for the inappropriate functioning of some distillation equipment used for the dewatering of organic solvents.

Fluid Phase Equilibria

It can only be assumed that Gonzo, playing a plumber in "The Muppet Movie," worked with a left-handed monkey wrench.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

In general, long-term isolation can only be confidently assumed when spatially concordant patterns across multiple unlinked loci are found [ 29, 32].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

First, although HJB can be derived for models assuming general terminal time (e.g., gamma), so far the control policy can only be computed assuming exponential terminal time.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Rather, on this scenario God's aims as creator can only be achieved — assuming they will be achieved at all — by taking risks.

SEP

Such twaddle, you assume, can only be tongue-in-cheek.

Independent

So Oliver's not the only one, it can safely be assumed.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can only be assumed", ensure the context provides sufficient clues for the reader to understand the basis of the assumption, even if the evidence is indirect. This enhances clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting information that "can only be assumed" as a definitive truth. Always frame the statement as an assumption or inference to maintain accuracy and avoid misleading the audience.

Linguistic Context

Modal verb phrase indicating inference. The phrase "can only be assumed" functions to express a conclusion or belief that is based on indirect evidence or reasoning rather than direct proof. Ludwig provides examples showing how this phrase is used to signal that a statement is an assumption.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Books

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can only be assumed" is a versatile phrase used to express inferences based on incomplete evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, notably in News & Media and Science. While offering flexibility, it's essential to use it judiciously, avoiding the presentation of assumptions as concrete facts. Alternatives like "can only be inferred" or "must be presumed" offer subtle variations in meaning, allowing for nuanced expression based on the specific context. Mastering its usage enhances precision in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can only be inferred

Indicates a conclusion reached through reasoning from evidence, rather than direct observation; more emphasis on logical deduction.

must be presumed

Suggests a legal or formal context where a fact is taken as true unless proven otherwise; implies a stronger degree of certainty.

can only be speculated

Emphasizes the uncertainty and lack of concrete evidence; leans towards conjecture.

can only be surmised

Similar to speculated, but implies a more thoughtful or considered guess based on limited information.

it is reasonable to assume

Introduces a justification for the assumption, suggesting it's based on sound reasoning or common knowledge.

one can only conclude

Highlights the logical outcome of a set of premises, suggesting a direct line of reasoning.

it stands to reason

Indicates that something is logically likely or evident; implies a natural or inherent connection.

it is logical to deduce

Emphasizes the deductive process and the inherent logic in reaching a conclusion.

it is fair to presume

Suggests that the assumption is just or equitable, often in the absence of definitive proof.

we are left to believe

Implies that the belief is the only remaining option given the circumstances, often with a hint of resignation.

FAQs

How can I use "can only be assumed" in a sentence?

Use "can only be assumed" to express a belief or conclusion that is based on indirect evidence or inference. For example, "Given the lack of direct evidence, their motive "can only be assumed"."

What is a more formal alternative to "can only be assumed"?

A more formal alternative is "must be presumed", which suggests a stronger degree of certainty based on established facts or legal principles. Another option is "can only be inferred" which suggests a logical deduction based on the available evidence.

When is it appropriate to use "can only be assumed" in writing?

It's appropriate when you are drawing a conclusion from limited or indirect information and want to acknowledge that your statement is an inference rather than a proven fact. Avoid using it when you have concrete evidence or are presenting an established truth.

What is the difference between "can only be assumed" and "can only be speculated"?

"Can only be assumed" suggests a reasonable inference based on some available clues, while "can only be speculated" implies a greater degree of uncertainty and conjecture, with less grounding in concrete evidence. The distinction lies in the strength of the implied evidence.