can presumably be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can presumably be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express a possibility or assumption about something that is likely to happen or be true. Example: "The results of the experiment can presumably be replicated under similar conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The disaster can presumably be fixed.

The New York Times

This can presumably be attributed to certain methodological shortcomings including lack of statistical power to detect small effect sizes.

Radiotherapy and Oncology

Given the size of the police presence today, that figure can presumably be expected to go up significantly.

The Guardian

Moreover, this is one Chinese purchase that American authorities can presumably be relied on not to block.

The New York Times

The judge sensibly left that issue to the F.D.A., which can presumably be trusted to make a fair assessment now that it will be under new leadership.

The New York Times

The film can presumably be picked up and carried on the satellite stations that are widely watched here and around the Arab world.

The New York Times

Privatization is superficially attractive for two main reasons: the higher returns that can presumably be earned, say, in the stock market, and the virtues of individual choice.

The New York Times

Would-be leakers can, presumably, be dissuaded; they can be outmaneuvered in the technological cat-and-mouse game; they can learn self-restraint.

The New York Times

Here, plaintiffs do not object to signing their names to the referendum petition, where it can presumably be observed by later signers; they challenge only the later disclosure of that information by the State.

Cornell University

The particle feeding did not drastically improve the methane decomposition rate and hydrogen yield, which can presumably be attributed to kinetic limitation due to short particle residence time in the high-temperature region.

Fuel

Breaking the Silence Live is clearly the most benign idea, as the biggest risk is that an implant may not work (and the percentage chance of that eventuality can presumably be predicted from off-screen clinical experience).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can presumably be", ensure the context provides sufficient background to support the assumption being made. This strengthens the credibility of your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "can presumably be" when there is significant uncertainty or lack of supporting evidence. Overstating assumptions can weaken your argument and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can presumably be" functions as a modal phrase, expressing a degree of possibility or likelihood. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate that something is reasonably assumed based on available information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

56%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can presumably be" is a grammatically sound and frequently used modal phrase that introduces a reasonable assumption. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for both formal and neutral registers, commonly appearing in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that your assumption is well-supported by evidence to maintain credibility. Alternatives like "can likely be" or "may reasonably be" can offer nuanced variations in meaning depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can likely be

Emphasizes a high probability or expectation.

can probably be

Indicates a strong likelihood based on available evidence.

can reasonably be

Suggests that the possibility is logical and justifiable.

can conceivably be

Highlights the possibility, even if it seems unlikely.

can possibly be

Indicates a potential occurrence, though not necessarily probable.

can feasibly be

Suggests the possibility depends on practical conditions or resources.

can hypothetically be

Posits a situation for theoretical consideration.

can arguably be

Highlights that the statement can be supported by an argument.

might plausibly be

Indicates a possibility that aligns with existing knowledge.

may reasonably be

Suggests a moderate level of probability or justification.

FAQs

How can I use "can presumably be" in a sentence?

The phrase "can presumably be" is used to express an assumption or expectation that something is likely to occur or be true based on available information. For example, "The project "can presumably be" completed on time, given the current progress."

What are some alternatives to "can presumably be"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "can likely be", "can probably be", or "may reasonably be". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "can presumably be" and "can possibly be"?

"Can presumably be" suggests a reasonable assumption based on evidence, whereas "can possibly be" indicates a potential, but not necessarily probable, outcome.

Is "can presumably be" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "can presumably be" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you need to present a logical assumption supported by evidence. However, ensure that the assumption is well-grounded to maintain credibility.