could mean that

USAGE SUMMARY

"could mean that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a way to express an idea or thought more clearly. For example, "The fact that he hasn't called back yet could mean that he's not interested."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That could mean that PATH terminal construction might not begin for five years, he said.

The New York Times

This could mean that two prosecutions get under way.

The New York Times

A fast rebound could mean that all is forgiven.

The New York Times

Well it could mean that demand for shelter has fallen.

The Economist

"The higher imports could mean that domestic consumption is improving.

The New York Times

High prices for gene therapies could mean that only those with money have access, raising concerns.

Stanford University

'It could mean that we have to change quantum theory, the fundamental theory governing matter.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Their findings could mean that genes exist that cause both epilepsy and migraine.

Columbia University

That could mean that you'll be working, in some form, until you are 80.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The numbers could mean that employers staffed up temporarily for Easter and began summer seasonal hiring.

The Washington Post

This could mean that it will pay more tax in the UK.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could mean that" to introduce a possible interpretation or consequence of a situation, ensuring clarity and avoiding definitive statements when uncertainty exists.

Common error

Avoid using "could mean that" excessively in close succession. Vary your language with synonyms like "might suggest", "may indicate", or "implies" to maintain reader engagement and prevent repetitive writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could mean that" functions as a modal verb phrase introducing a subordinate clause. It expresses possibility, implication, or a potential interpretation of a situation, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

23%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could mean that" is a versatile phrase used to express a possibility or implication. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically sound and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news, academic writing, and scientific discussions. When writing, use it to introduce interpretations or consequences without making definitive claims, and remember to vary your language to avoid repetition. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it could imply that

Replaces "mean" with "imply", focusing on suggestion rather than direct meaning.

it might suggest that

Substitutes "could mean" with "might suggest", conveying a slightly weaker level of possibility.

it may indicate that

Replaces "could mean" with "may indicate", suggesting a sign or signal.

that could signify that

Uses "signify" instead of "mean", implying a deeper or more symbolic meaning.

that might entail that

Replaces "could mean" with "might entail", suggesting a consequence or result.

this could lead to

Focuses on the potential outcome or consequence, rather than the direct meaning.

this suggests the possibility that

Adds explicit mention of "possibility", broadening the scope beyond direct implication.

this may be indicative of

Uses "indicative of" to point out the state of being a sign or symptom of something.

it is possible that this indicates

Expresses the idea as a possibility.

this allows us to infer that

Shifts the focus to the act of drawing a conclusion, rather than the direct meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "could mean that" in a sentence?

"Could mean that" introduces a possible outcome or interpretation. For example, "The increase in sales could mean that the marketing campaign was successful".

What's a stronger alternative to "could mean that"?

If you want to convey more certainty, consider using "indicates that" or "proves that", depending on the context.

What are some similar phrases to "could mean that"?

You can use alternatives like "might suggest that", "may indicate that", or "implies that" to express a similar idea.

Is there a difference between "could mean that" and "must mean that"?

"Could mean that" indicates a possibility, while "must mean that" implies a stronger, more definite conclusion. The choice depends on the certainty you want to convey.