could be gained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be gained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the possibility of obtaining something, often in a context discussing potential benefits or advantages. Example: "With the right strategy, valuable insights could be gained from the data analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What could be gained?

The Guardian

What could be gained from it?

Independent

- What could be gained through confronting and overcoming it?

The Guardian - Books

Better acoustics could be gained by internal restructuring.

The New York Times - Arts

Nothing could be gained from knowing the difference.

The New York Times

Results show that a significant improvement to DORIS-based orbits could be gained using this strategy.

Advances in Space Research

Neil also noted that "substantial savings" could be gained "from no Black involvement". Id.

Harvard University

It identified $11 billion in supply chain efficiencies that could be gained.

Yale University

For example, what commercial interests could be gained from space missions?

The New York Times

There was nothing that could be gained by wishing for it.

The Guardian

The most salient question to ask is what could be gained from bringing down the internet.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could be gained" to highlight potential benefits or improvements that are achievable through specific actions or changes. This phrasing is effective in persuasive writing and proposals.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on passive constructions like "could be gained" if it obscures the actor or responsible party. Opt for active voice when clarity and accountability are important: "You could gain valuable experience" is more direct than "Valuable experience could be gained."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be gained" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing possibility or potential. It indicates that a benefit, advantage, or improvement might result from a specific action or situation. According to Ludwig, this phrase is usable in written English to show a chance of obtaining something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could be gained" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression indicating the possibility of obtaining something beneficial. As confirmed by Ludwig, it enjoys widespread use across diverse contexts, including news, scientific research, and academic writing. While alternatives like "might be obtained" or "can be acquired" offer subtle nuances in meaning, "could be gained" effectively conveys potential advantages and improvements. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity and avoid overusing passive constructions. By understanding its function and context, you can confidently incorporate "could be gained" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be obtained

Replaces "could" with "might", indicating a slightly lower probability or certainty.

can be acquired

Substitutes "gained" with "acquired", suggesting a more deliberate or intentional process of obtaining something.

may be realized

Emphasizes the potential for something to become a reality or to be achieved.

might be achieved

Focuses on the accomplishment of a goal or objective.

can be derived

Suggests that something can be obtained as a result or consequence of something else.

may be secured

Indicates that something can be obtained and protected or made safe.

could be attained

Highlights the potential to reach a certain level or goal.

can be extracted

Implies that something can be taken or drawn out from something else.

might be accessed

Focuses on the possibility of gaining entry or use of something.

may be harvested

Suggests a process of gathering or collecting something, often over time.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "could be gained" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "might be obtained", "can be acquired", or "may be realized". These alternatives often lend a more sophisticated tone to academic or professional writing.

Is there a difference between "could be gained" and "can be gained"?

"Could be gained" suggests a possibility or potential, while "can be gained" implies a greater degree of certainty or ability. The choice depends on the level of confidence you want to convey.

What are some synonyms for "gained" that I can use with "could be"?

Alternatives for "gained" include "achieved", "obtained", "acquired", "derived", and "secured". For example, you could say "could be achieved", "could be obtained", or "could be acquired".

In what situations is it best to use the phrase "could be gained"?

The phrase "could be gained" is suitable when discussing potential benefits, improvements, or advantages that might result from a particular action, strategy, or situation. It's particularly useful in persuasive writing, proposals, and strategic planning documents.