could be estimated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be estimated" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest that an amount, quantity, cost, or value can be approximated or calculated. For example: Analysts suggest that the total economic impact of the new regulations could be estimated to be billions of dollars.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pore pressure could be estimated prior to drilling using estimated rock velocities.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

That was before a final figure could be estimated for Beijing 2008, let alone Rio.

The Guardian - Sport

Distance from a cliff could be estimated by timing the echoes of shouts or drumbeats.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Therefore, the electron beam emittance could be estimated.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

Effect sizes could be estimated for nine trials.

Australian Journal of Physiotherapy

The yield could be estimated from an energy balance.

Chemical Engineering Science

The DSSC's FF could be estimated from Eq. (5) [16].

Nanoscale Research Letters

The Vickers hardness,Hv could be estimated by (4).

Nanoscale Research Letters

We also introduce new results that could be estimated empirically.

IZA Journal of Migration

A total of 20 body dimensions could be estimated with simple linear regression equation using stature and 9 dimensions could be estimated with multiple linear regression equation.

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics

For the present case study, representative parameter values could be estimated in a computationally efficient way.

Journal of Hydrology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be estimated", clearly state the method or data upon which the estimation is based to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting an estimation derived using "could be estimated" as an exact value. Always acknowledge the potential for error or variability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be estimated" primarily functions as a modal passive construction, indicating the possibility of performing an estimation. As Ludwig shows, it's frequently used in contexts where precise figures are not available or readily attainable, suggesting an approximate calculation is feasible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

83%

News & Media

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could be estimated" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to suggest the possibility of approximating a value, as Ludwig AI confirms. It is frequently employed in scientific and news contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, clarity is paramount, and it's crucial to avoid presenting estimations as exact values. Alternatives such as "can be approximated" or "might be predicted" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Remember to specify the method or data used for estimation to enhance credibility. The high frequency and wide range of sources underscore its relevance in various forms of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be approximated

Focuses on the possibility of getting an approximate value, slightly emphasizing the feasibility.

may be evaluated

Emphasizes the process of assessment, making it sound more formal and structured.

might be predicted

Shifts the focus to forecasting or anticipating a value, implying a degree of uncertainty.

potentially be calculated

Highlights the capability to compute the value, underlining the mathematical aspect.

could be determined

Focuses on finding a definitive value through investigation or analysis.

is amenable to estimation

This is a more formal way to express that something is capable of being estimated.

can reasonably be inferred

Emphasizes the use of reasoning to deduce a value based on available information.

is subject to approximation

Highlights that the value is not exact and will involve some level of rounding or estimation.

allows for an estimation

This highlights the possibility or allowance of making an estimation, implying permissive conditions.

can be roughly gauged

Suggests a less precise method of estimation, implying a quick or initial assessment.

FAQs

What does "could be estimated" mean?

The phrase "could be estimated" suggests that a value or quantity can be approximated or calculated, often indicating that the exact figure might not be known or easily obtainable.

How do I use "could be estimated" in a sentence?

You can use "could be estimated" when you want to indicate that something can be approximated or roughly calculated based on available information. For example, "The project cost "could be estimated" based on similar projects."

What are some alternatives to "could be estimated"?

Some alternatives to "could be estimated" include "can be approximated", "might be predicted", or "can reasonably be inferred", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "could be estimated" instead of "will be calculated"?

"Could be estimated" is suitable when the value is based on an approximation or incomplete data. "Will be calculated" is more appropriate when the value will be determined precisely using a specific formula or method.