could be worked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be worked" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest that something has the potential to be developed or improved upon. Example: "The project is still in its early stages, but it could be worked into a more comprehensive plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But surely something could be worked out.

The New York Times

Of course, that could be worked on.

The New York Times - Sports

He was sure something could be worked out.

The Guardian - Travel

The details, he said, "could be worked out with Republicans".

The New York Times

Sector and application specific criteria of good practice could be worked out.

Procedia Environmental Sciences

Whether a similar accommodation could be worked out in the present case, I do not know.

Cornell University

They said that details like what to do about "self-insurance" could be worked out.

The New York Times

It was hard to imagine how all this could be worked out.

The New Yorker

The transaction was put on hold until the provenance could be worked out.

The New Yorker

To our eyes, these were assets that could be worked with.

The New York Times - Arts

Remaining problems could be worked out with a subsequent piece of legislation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could be worked" to suggest that a solution or improvement is possible but not guaranteed. For example, "The initial design has flaws, but they "could be worked" out with further revisions."

Common error

Avoid using "could be worked" when a definitive solution is already in place. It introduces unnecessary uncertainty. Instead of "The problem "could be worked" out," use "The problem has been resolved" if the issue is already settled.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be worked" functions as a passive construction using the modal verb 'could,' indicating possibility or potential. It suggests that something is capable of being resolved, improved, or addressed, but does not guarantee it. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

13%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could be worked" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate the possibility of improvement, resolution, or arrangement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. As evidenced by its frequent appearance in News & Media, Academia, and Science, the phrase maintains a neutral to professional register and effectively conveys optimism or hope. When using this phrase, remember that it implies potential rather than certainty, and it’s vital to use it accurately to avoid misleading assertions. Consider replacing it with options like "might be resolved" or "can be improved" for subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be ironed out

Emphasizes the potential to eliminate difficulties or smooth out problems.

can be improved

Focuses on the ability to enhance the quality or condition of something.

may be adjusted

Suggests the potential for making alterations or modifications.

might be resolved

Indicates a possibility of finding a solution.

might be developed

Highlights the possibility of further growth or expansion.

can be arranged

Suggests that something is capable of being organized or planned.

might be addressed

Focuses on the possibility of dealing with or resolving an issue.

can be managed

Implies the capacity to control or handle a situation or task.

may be achieved

Emphasizes the potential for accomplishing a goal or outcome.

can be settled

Indicates the ability to resolve a dispute or reach an agreement.

FAQs

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

The phrase "could be worked" suggests a possibility for improvement or resolution. For example, "The budget is tight, but a solution "could be worked" out with careful planning."

What are some alternatives to "could be worked"?

You can use alternatives like "might be resolved", "can be improved", or "may be addressed" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "could be worked" or "can be worked"?

"Could be worked" implies a possibility, while "can be worked" suggests a stronger likelihood. The choice depends on the degree of certainty you want to convey. For example, "The issues "can be resolved"" indicates more confidence than "the issues "could be resolved"".

What does "could be worked around" mean?

"Could be worked around" means that a problem or obstacle can be avoided or circumvented, allowing progress to continue despite the difficulty. It suggests finding an alternative approach or solution.