could equally be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could equally be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two or more options or possibilities are equally valid or applicable in a given context. Example: "The solution could equally be found through traditional methods or innovative approaches."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It could equally be either.

Independent

It could equally be directed at journalists.

The Economist

Could equally be used to describe Switzerland v Honduras".

The Guardian - Sport

But all those criticisms could equally be levelled at Chase.

The Guardian - Sport

She could equally be talking about her own.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Money could equally be conceived as a ration chit.

The Guardian

The Bangladeshi Bad Boys could equally be an urban gang.

The Guardian

Chemicals released in the atmosphere during bombing could equally be to blame.

The Guardian

Next year there could equally be two Premier League or two Spanish teams in the final.

The Guardian - Sport

The same adjectives could equally be applied to the action in many of the great movies.

The New Yorker

What is true for this prisoner could equally be true for others.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could equally be", ensure that the context clearly supports the equivalence you are suggesting. Ambiguity can weaken the intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "could equally be" multiple times in a single, complex sentence, as it can make the writing sound repetitive and convoluted. Instead, vary your phrasing to maintain clarity and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could equally be" functions as a modal phrase, expressing a sense of equal possibility or alternative explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard and acceptable construction to present equivalent options. The examples show the phrase introducing alternative interpretations or possibilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could equally be" is a versatile modal phrase used to present equally valid alternatives or possibilities. As Ludwig AI validates, this construction is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and business contexts, reflecting its neutral to professional tone. When writing, remember that while presenting alternatives with equal weight is important, overuse can lead to repetitive phrasing. Alternatives such as "might just as well be" or "could also be" can offer variety while maintaining clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could also be

A more direct and simple substitution, indicating another possibility.

can equally be

Focuses on the capability of both options being valid.

might just as well be

Emphasizes indifference or acceptance of either possibility.

may as well be

Suggests a similar level of likelihood or suitability.

is just as likely to be

Highlights the equal probability of two or more outcomes.

is equally probable

Emphasizes the identical chances of different events occurring.

is equivalently possible

Indicates that the options share the same potential.

can be considered the same

Implies the two options have the same outcome.

is interchangeable with

Focuses on the possibility of swapping two items.

bears a resemblance to

Highlights the similar nature between two options.

FAQs

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

"Could equally be" indicates two or more possibilities are equally valid. For example, "The delay "could equally be" due to weather or technical issues".

What phrases are similar to "could equally be"?

Alternatives include "might just as well be", "could also be", or "may as well be", each expressing similar possibilities.

Is it grammatically correct to say "could equally be"?

Yes, "could equally be" is grammatically correct and widely used in both formal and informal contexts to suggest equivalent possibilities.

What's the difference between "could equally be" and "might be"?

"Could equally be" suggests two possibilities are equally probable, while "might be" simply indicates a possibility without implying equal probability.