cannot rule out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot rule out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts where one is indicating that a possibility remains, often in scientific, legal, or analytical discussions. Example: "While the evidence is inconclusive, we cannot rule out the possibility of a connection between the two events."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We cannot rule out a similar scenario for HPyV9.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

"We cannot rule out anything," she said.

The New York Times

"I cannot rule out the possibility of using DDT.

The New York Times

However, we cannot rule out another kind of outcome.

The New York Times

"We cannot rule out violent responses," he says.

The Economist

Cable says he cannot rule out increasing VAT.

The Guardian

"I cannot rule out tampering," he said in an interview.

The New York Times

We cannot rule out that this relationship may be artificial.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

However, we cannot rule out some level of chain scission.

Applied Petrochemical Research

Police have said they cannot rule out finding more bodies.

BBC

However, we cannot rule out that different events might have taken place.

Advances in Space Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot rule out" when you want to acknowledge a possibility, even if it seems unlikely. It's often used to maintain objectivity in analytical or investigative contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot rule out" when you want to express strong doubt. This phrase suggests a possibility remains, so use stronger language if your intention is to dismiss an idea.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot rule out" functions as a modal expression of possibility. It indicates that a particular outcome or explanation cannot be definitively rejected, acknowledging uncertainty. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

57%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot rule out" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to acknowledge possibilities, particularly in scientific and news contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a way of maintaining objectivity by refraining from dismissing potential outcomes. The phrase is more common in formal or scientific writing. While alternative expressions like "cannot dismiss" or "must consider" exist, the selection should align with the intended tone and context. Remember to use this phrase when uncertainty needs emphasizing rather than conveying strong doubt.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot dismiss

Focuses on the inability to disregard or reject something as untrue or irrelevant.

cannot exclude

Emphasizes the impossibility of eliminating a particular option or explanation.

cannot discount

Highlights the necessity of considering something as a relevant factor.

must consider

Indicates a strong obligation to take something into account.

should consider

Suggests that something warrants attention, though perhaps not as urgently.

have to consider

Highlights a necessity to take something into account.

cannot ignore

Underlines the importance of something to be overlooked.

must entertain

Highlights the need of considering a possibility.

have to entertain

Highlights the need of considering a possibility.

have to bear in mind

Implies that remembering or acknowledging some aspect is essential.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot rule out" in a sentence?

Use "cannot rule out" to express that a particular possibility should still be considered. For example, "We "cannot rule out the possibility" of further complications".

What is a good alternative to "cannot rule out"?

Depending on the context, suitable alternatives to "cannot rule out" include phrases like "cannot exclude", "cannot dismiss", or "must consider".

Is it correct to say "can rule out"?

Yes, "can rule out" is grammatically correct and means that something is not possible or should not be considered. The opposite, "cannot rule out", means it's still a possibility.

What does "cannot rule out the possibility" imply?

"Cannot rule out the possibility" suggests that while something may seem unlikely, it still could happen or be true. It acknowledges uncertainty and the need to keep an open mind.