could be retained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be retained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of keeping or preserving something, such as information, materials, or qualities. Example: "The important data from the previous study could be retained for future reference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Under certain circumstances, even attorney-client conversation could be retained.

The Guardian

With these changes, the present format for MPC deliberations, the two-day meeting, could be retained.

The Guardian - Business

Iron-rich foods such as red meat meant concentration could be retained.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The image of the Golden Lion [on] the building's facade could be retained," it was suggested.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At the least, he says, they provided a place where weapons-related expertise and equipment could be retained.

The New York Times

The research assessment exercise, which is to be scrapped next year, could be retained under the Tories.

The Guardian

The 185 crossbench peers, the Lords' most expert and effective element, could be retained, as David Cameron reputedly wants.

The Guardian - Opinion

Other PR experts said the interest could be retained without having to give a boat a ridiculous name.

The Guardian

The Information Commissioner said that this was in fact a misunderstanding and that such details could be retained.

The Guardian

Thus a republic could be instituted and at the same time old and valuable ties could be retained".

The New York Times

Such genes could be retained if gay men were unusually effective protectors of their nephews and nieces, helping genes just like theirs get into future generations.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be retained", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being retained and why its retention is significant. This enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "could be retained" excessively in passive constructions. Active voice often creates more direct and engaging writing. Consider rephrasing to emphasize the actor responsible for the retention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be retained" functions as a modal verb phrase. It indicates a possibility or potential for something to be kept or maintained. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is grammatically correct and broadly applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could be retained" is a versatile modal verb phrase that expresses the possibility of maintaining or preserving something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including science, news media, and general writing. While it's crucial to use the phrase mindfully, considering potential overuse of the passive voice, it remains a valuable tool for expressing hypothetical scenarios and potential outcomes related to preservation. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse audiences and writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be kept

Emphasizes the possibility of keeping something, with a slightly less formal tone.

may be preserved

Highlights the potential for preservation, often implying careful maintenance.

can be maintained

Focuses on the ability to maintain something in its current state.

is capable of being saved

Highlights the capacity to save something, often from loss or damage.

has the potential to endure

Emphasizes the possibility of long-term survival or continuation.

is able to be conserved

Focuses on conservation efforts, often in environmental or historical contexts.

remains viable

Highlights the continued functionality or feasibility of something.

is eligible for continuation

Focuses on the formal requirements for something to be continued.

can continue to exist

Emphasizes the ongoing existence of something.

is allowed to remain

Highlights the permission or allowance for something to stay in its current state.

FAQs

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

Use "could be retained" to express a possibility that something can be kept or maintained. For instance, "Valuable data "could be retained" for future analysis".

What are some alternatives to "could be retained"?

Alternatives include "might be kept", "may be preserved", or "can be maintained depending" on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "could be retained" or "could have retained"?

"Could be retained" indicates a present or future possibility, while "could have retained" refers to a past possibility that did not occur. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the timing and likelihood you intend to express.

What is the difference between "could be retained" and "should be retained"?

"Could be retained" suggests a possibility, while "should be retained" implies a recommendation or obligation. Use "should be retained" when advocating for the retention of something due to its importance or value.