could not conclude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could not conclude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing an inability to reach a decision or finish a thought or argument. Example: "After reviewing all the evidence, I could not conclude whether the theory was valid or not."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And Mr. Braun, as it turned out, could not conclude a deal "in the room".

The New York Times

"We could not conclude in favor of one company," Mr. Park said, defending the government's decision.

The New York Times

But the tribunal said it could not conclude that Mr. Ahern had taken bribes.

The New York Times

The imperialists, Lenin contended, driven by an annexationist dynamic, could not conclude a just, lasting peace.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But she said that she could not conclude with any certainty that he was holding a gun.

The New York Times

The panel's reasoning: it could not conclude that an adjustment would bring the census any closer to the truth.

The New York Times

However, despite FBC paying the broadcaster significant amounts of money to broadcast a number of programmes, Ofcom said it could not conclude its editorial independence had been undermined.

The Guardian

Frank DeRosa, a diocesan spokesman, put it this way: "The diocese could not conclude with certainty who was telling the truth.

The New York Times

Yet it is possible to admire someone without being blinded to the realities of his situation and only the remarkably naive could not conclude that Mancini was in trouble given the way the season has gone.

The Guardian - Sport

Some participants (26 %) could not conclude about the quality of the received results.

International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education

Flavián and Lozano (2006), however, could not conclude on the role of centralisation in the development of market-oriented culture.

International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could not conclude", ensure that the reason for the inability to conclude is clear from the context. Providing the basis for the uncertainty enhances clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "could not conclude" without providing any justification for the lack of conclusion. This can make your statement appear weak or unsubstantiated. Always provide context or reasons for the uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could not conclude" functions as a verbal phrase expressing an inability to reach a definitive conclusion. It often appears in reports, analyses, or discussions where evidence is insufficient or conflicting, as Ludwig examples show. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for expressing uncertainty in findings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could not conclude" is a common and grammatically sound way to express an inability to reach a definite conclusion. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's often used when available evidence is insufficient. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, the phrase is suitable for neutral to formal communication. When using this phrase, ensure to provide context for the lack of conclusion to maintain clarity. Related phrases like ""could not determine"" or ""was unable to conclude"" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could not determine

Emphasizes the inability to establish something definitively.

was unable to conclude

A more formal variation using "unable" instead of "could not".

could not confirm

Focuses on the lack of verification or validation.

could not ascertain

Highlights the failure to find something out for certain.

could not establish

Emphasizes the failure to set up or prove something.

could not prove

Emphasizes the inability to demonstrate something as true.

could not decide

Focuses on the inability to make a choice between options.

could not resolve

Highlights the inability to find a solution or answer.

found no definitive answer

Highlights the absence of a clear and final solution.

remained uncertain

Shifts the focus to the continuing state of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "could not conclude" in a sentence?

Use "could not conclude" to express an inability to reach a decision or form a firm opinion based on available information. For example, "After reviewing the data, the committee "could not conclude" whether the project was a success".

What are some alternatives to "could not conclude"?

Alternatives include "could not determine", "could not ascertain", or "was unable to conclude", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "could not conclude" or "did not conclude"?

"Could not conclude" suggests an inability to reach a conclusion due to insufficient evidence or information. "Did not conclude" simply states that a conclusion was not reached, without implying the reason. The best choice depends on the context.

What does it mean when a report says "the investigation could not conclude"?

It typically means that the investigation didn't find enough evidence to reach a definitive conclusion about the matter under investigation. It implies uncertainty and a lack of clear findings.