could do more than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could do more than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea that someone or something has the potential or ability to exceed a certain limit or expectation. Example: "With the right resources, the team could do more than just meet the project deadline; they could deliver exceptional results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I wish I could do more than what I'm doing".

The New York Times - Sports

But O'Neal's absence could do more than crush ratings.

The New York Times - Sports

"We could do more than sports," he told Sports Illustrated.

The Guardian - Sport

The testing could do more than help sexual assault victims, advocates say.

The New York Times

I had this idea that I could do more than anybody else".

The Guardian

Other players could do more than he did, but no one could exceed his perfection.

The New York Times - Sports

But neither he nor his teammates could do more than threaten.

The New York Times - Sports

In 2006, Jackman proved he could do more than just action.

The Guardian - Film

"She always thought she could do more than she generally could," Ms. Fennebresque said.

The New York Times

He said he could do more than Mr. Bush on the economy and education.

The New York Times

"There were things that you could do more than just believe in.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could do more than", ensure that the comparison is clear and specific. Avoid vague statements and provide context for what the subject is capable of exceeding.

Common error

Avoid using "could do more than" without specifying what the subject is exceeding. For example, instead of saying "The new software could do more than before", specify "The new software could do more than simply process data; it can also analyze trends".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could do more than" primarily functions as a comparative expression, indicating that something or someone has the potential or ability to exceed a particular level, expectation, or standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both grammatically correct and usable. Examples from Ludwig showcase its ability to describe unrealized potential and exceeded limitations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could do more than" is a versatile comparative expression used to highlight the potential for exceeding expectations or achieving broader impacts. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and frequently used, especially in News & Media. To use it effectively, ensure clarity in your comparisons and avoid vague statements. Related phrases include "is capable of more than" and "can surpass". By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage, you can leverage "could do more than" to enhance your writing and convey impactful messages.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is capable of more than

Emphasizes inherent ability beyond a stated action.

is able to exceed

Highlights surpassing a specific limit or boundary.

can surpass

Focuses on going beyond a particular achievement.

is equipped to go beyond

Suggests having the necessary resources for exceeding expectations.

has the potential to outstrip

Implies a capability for significantly exceeding something else.

is designed to outperform

Indicates a deliberate intent for superior performance.

has the bandwidth to outdo

Conveys capacity to exceed in performance or achievement.

is in a position to trump

Suggests a strategic advantage to surpass a certain expectation.

can extend beyond

Highlights the capability to reach beyond a specified boundary or limitation.

is empowered to transcend

Emphasizes the capacity to go above and beyond typical constraints.

FAQs

How to use "could do more than" in a sentence?

Use "could do more than" to indicate the capacity to exceed a certain limit or expectation. For example, "The new policy "could do more than just" reduce costs; it could improve employee morale".

What can I say instead of "could do more than"?

You can use alternatives like "is capable of more than", "is able to exceed", or "can surpass" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "could do more than" or "can do more than"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "could do more than" often implies a potential or hypothetical ability, while "can do more than" suggests a current ability.

What's the difference between "could do more than" and "should do more than"?

"Could do more than" indicates capability, whereas "should do more than" implies a moral or ethical obligation. For example, "The company "could do more than" simply comply with regulations" suggests they have the ability to exceed requirements, while "The company should do more than simply comply with regulations" suggests it's their responsibility to go above and beyond.