could arguably be

USAGE SUMMARY

"could arguably be" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express an opinion or belief that is open to questioning or debate. Here is an example: "The decision to invest in the company could arguably be seen as risky, but its successful track record suggests otherwise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

In future, scales incorporating aspects of mental well-being such as spirituality and personal responsibility for health could arguably be incorporated into scales of mental well-being and validated across all cultural groups.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

The long term value in such a policy could, arguably, be worthwhile.

The Economist

Its price could arguably be an example of the power of marketing.

The New York Times

While the profession could arguably be doing more, it is working hard to make access fairer.

The Guardian

Any photograph that focused on a suit protected by a copyright could arguably be considered a derivative work.

The New York Times

With a brand identity as strong and opulent as this, Donatella could arguably be called an empress of Italian fashion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Without wishing to speculate (who are we kidding?) this could arguably be read as a hint that something especially exciting will be going down on the Dalmatian Coast.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

However, our objective was to follow-up the responses of practitioners from our previously published survey in association football 1 and this specificity could arguably be deemed essential.

British Journal of Sports Medicine

Curiously, in Heliconius this mechanism appears to be operating imperfectly, resulting in a measurable dosage effect that could arguably be called "incomplete" dosage compensation.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Some of her answers could arguably be described as self-serving, including the one in Cedar Rapids on Saturday night about her place in American politics.

The New York Times

Indeed she seems undaunted by what could arguably be viewed as a Herculean task, and perhaps she is.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could arguably be", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the basis of the argument. Back up your statement with evidence or reasoning to make it more persuasive.

Common error

Avoid using "could arguably be" when presenting widely accepted facts or conclusions. It is best suited for nuanced or debatable points, not for stating the obvious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could arguably be" functions as a modal qualifier, softening a statement and indicating that it is an opinion or interpretation open to discussion. It suggests a possibility or potential, but not a certainty. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could arguably be" is a versatile phrase used to express a tentative assertion or a debatable point. Ludwig AI confirms that is grammatically correct. It functions as a modal qualifier, softening claims and inviting discussion. It is commonly found in news, science, and formal writing, where balanced and nuanced expression is valued. When using this phrase, it is important to provide sufficient context and avoid overstating the case. Consider alternatives like "might plausibly be" or "may reasonably be" to fine-tune the level of possibility and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might plausibly be

Replaces "could" with "might", suggesting a slightly lower degree of possibility and replaces "arguably" with "plausibly", focusing on believability.

may reasonably be

Substitutes "could" with "may", indicating possibility and replaces "arguably" with "reasonably", emphasizing justification.

can debatably be

Replaces "could" with "can", suggesting a potential ability and replaces "arguably" with "debatably", highlighting the controversial nature of the statement.

is possibly considered

Rephrases the modal verb structure to emphasize the potential for something to be viewed in a certain way.

is conceivably seen as

Highlights the element of subjective perception and possibility.

is potentially regarded as

Focuses on the potential for something to be held in a particular opinion.

is purportedly known as

Introduces an element of uncertainty or skepticism regarding the validity of the statement.

is allegedly understood as

Suggests that something is claimed to be understood in a certain way, often implying doubt.

is questionably deemed

Emphasizes the doubtful or uncertain nature of a judgment or assessment.

is speculatively thought of

Highlights that an idea is based on speculation rather than concrete evidence.

FAQs

How can I use "could arguably be" in a sentence?

Use "could arguably be" to present an opinion or interpretation that is open to debate. For example, "The film's success could arguably be attributed to its innovative marketing campaign."

What are some alternatives to "could arguably be"?

You can use alternatives such as "might plausibly be", "may reasonably be", or "can debatably be" depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "could arguably be" and "is definitely"?

"Could arguably be" suggests a possibility that is open to debate, while "is definitely" asserts a fact. The former acknowledges potential counterarguments, while the latter does not.

Is "could arguably be" appropriate for formal writing?

"Could arguably be" is suitable for formal writing when you need to present a viewpoint that is not universally accepted but is supported by some evidence or reasoning. However, consider more direct language if a stronger assertion is needed.