can transpire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can transpire" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something can happen or occur, often in a context of events or situations unfolding over time. Example: "In the right conditions, anything can transpire during the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Although the overwhelming majority of events that can transpire in baseball over a brief time period cannot be distinguished statistically from random variation, a handful of accomplishments are so rare that even a single game can contain impressive predictive power.

The Economist

In answering what is was that plants needed, Dr. Waggoner explained:, "In warm weather, well-watered plants can transpire about an inch a week or 4 inches in a month.

The New York Times

"Any time you put the large number of horses in a gate and they have to go as far as they're going, so many things can transpire that it's hard to predict who the winner is going to be," the trainer Robbie O'Connor said.

The New York Times - Sports

"How we finish the season can transpire in to next season.

BBC

Explosions are the most destructive occurrence that can transpire at a process facility.

Handbook of Fire and Explosion Protection Engineering Principles For Oil, Gas, Chemical and Related Facilities

World Health Organization statistics from October 2013 show that violence against women is a worldwide issue that can transpire anywhere and with anyone.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Because plants can only transpire 'pure' water, hence usable plant water in the soil solution decreases dramatically as EC increases.

Applied Water Science

Because plants can only transpire "pure" water, usable plant water in the soil solution decreases dramatically as Ec increases.

Applied Water Science

Since plants can only transpire "pure" water, usable plant water in the soil solution decreases dramatically as EC increases (Kumar et al. 2014).

Applied Water Science

The higher the EC, the less suitable is water available to plants, because plants can only transpire ''pure'' water and usable plant water in the soil solution decreases dramatically as EC increases.

Applied Water Science

The concept behind this simplistic approach is that the net ecosystem productivity (NEP) of a forest can be limited by two main factors: the air temperature, which determines the length of the vegetative season, and the amount of water from soils that the plants can evapo-transpire.

Ecological Processes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can transpire", ensure the context implies an unfolding of events or a process that becomes known over time. Consider whether a simpler alternative like "can happen" is more appropriate for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "can transpire" when a simpler phrase like "can happen" or "can occur" would suffice. "Transpire" often implies a gradual revelation or unfolding, so reserve it for situations where this nuance is relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can transpire" functions as a modal verb ("can") + verb ("transpire") construction to express the possibility or potential for something to occur or become known. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates something that can happen.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can transpire" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express the possibility of something occurring or becoming known. While similar to "can happen", it often carries a nuance of unfolding or gradual revelation. As Ludwig AI has confirmed, the phrase is perfectly usable. The phrase appears more frequently in news and media contexts, but its use is appropriate in a range of formal and informal settings. When choosing to use this phrase, make sure you are aware of its formal tone, it is best to consider your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can take place

A straightforward alternative that directly replaces "transpire" with a common synonym.

may happen

Replaces "transpire" with the simpler verb "happen", indicating a possibility of occurrence.

could occur

Uses "occur" to convey the meaning of taking place, implying a possibility.

might arise

Suggests the potential for something to emerge or come into existence.

may come about

Indicates the possibility of something developing or taking place.

can unfold

Emphasizes the gradual development of events, similar to how "transpire" is sometimes used.

is able to happen

Breaks down the phrase, making it more explicit and less formal.

could materialize

Suggests that something has the potential to become real or concrete.

might eventuate

A more formal alternative indicating the possibility of something resulting or occurring.

is liable to occur

Suggests that something is likely to happen.

FAQs

What does "can transpire" mean?

The phrase "can transpire" means something is able to happen or occur. It often suggests a process or events unfolding over time. It's similar to saying something "can occur".

When is it appropriate to use "can transpire"?

Use "can transpire" when you want to convey that something has the potential to unfold or become known over time. If you simply mean something "can happen", a simpler phrase might be better.

Are there more formal alternatives to "can transpire"?

Yes, "can transpire" is already fairly formal. Alternatives like "might eventuate" or "could materialize" are also formal but carry slightly different connotations. Consider the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "can transpire" interchangeable with "can happen"?

While they are similar, "can transpire" often implies a gradual unfolding or revelation, whereas "can happen" is a more general statement of possibility. The best choice depends on the context.