could reason that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could reason that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a logical conclusion or inference that someone might draw based on available information or evidence. Example: "Given the circumstances, one could reason that the decision was made with the best intentions in mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

He could reason that South would be unlikely to lead a low club from any holding that included the king.

The New York Times - Arts

They could reason that, sure, "the company might have to pay $2 billion, but look, we're going to make $30 billion in this deal," Mr. Lopucki said.

The New York Times

"But John McCain could reason that Rudy Giuliani will do well in New York and New Jersey and decide that it is just too expensive to risk it.

The New York Times

But others in desperate need of a boost to their campaigns could reason that a memorable altercation with Trump, who is still disliked by large chunks of the party, is their best chance to stand out.

The Guardian

(E.g., she could reason that since she's heard Is that mess that is on the floor in there yours?

SEP

In the low density cities, one could reason that there is space to add the needed units.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

We could even reason that they, along with the other tech billionaires, have helped create this divide.

TechCrunch

Therefore, we hold the opinion that two reasons could cause that.

Nanoscale Research Letters

If you could give a reason, that would be fantastic – but it's not compulsory.

The Guardian - Books

One reason that could be speculated for this result is the increase in rural urban migration.

Health Economics Review

This could be one reason that many people are optimistic.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could reason that" to introduce a logical inference or a potential explanation based on available evidence. It suggests a reasoned perspective without asserting a definitive truth.

Common error

Avoid using "could reason that" when expressing a definitive fact or conclusion. This phrase implies a degree of uncertainty or subjectivity. If you're stating a known fact, use more assertive language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could reason that" functions as a modal phrase introducing a logical inference or a potential conclusion. It presents a reasoned perspective, suggesting a degree of uncertainty, as supported by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could reason that" is a versatile tool for introducing logical inferences and potential conclusions in writing. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used across diverse sources. Its usage spans scientific, news, and formal contexts, making it appropriate for various communication settings. While offering a reasoned perspective, it's important to avoid overstating certainty and instead embrace the phrase's inherent suggestion of possibility. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use "could reason that" to build nuanced and logical arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could logically conclude that

Adds "logically" for emphasis on the reasoning process.

might infer that

Replaces "reason" with "infer", suggesting a slightly more formal deduction.

might deduce that

Uses "deduce" instead of "reason", implying a more logical and certain conclusion.

might conclude that

Substitutes "reason" with "conclude", focusing on the outcome of a thought process.

one could draw the conclusion that

Rephrases "reason" as "draw the conclusion", highlighting the act of reaching a decision.

it is reasonable to assume that

Frames the statement as a general observation about reasonableness.

it is possible to infer that

Focuses on the possibility of drawing a particular inference.

might assume that

Replaces "reason" with "assume", indicating a belief without concrete proof.

one might surmise that

Uses "surmise" for a more sophisticated and subtle inference.

might speculate that

Uses "speculate" instead of "reason", suggesting a more tentative or uncertain inference.

FAQs

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

Use "could reason that" to introduce a logical deduction or a possible explanation, for instance: "Given the evidence, one "could reason that" the suspect had an accomplice".

What are some alternatives to "could reason that"?

You can use alternatives such as "might infer that", "might deduce that", or "might conclude that", depending on the level of certainty you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "could reason that" in formal writing?

Yes, "could reason that" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when presenting a reasoned argument or analysis. It signals a logical inference without asserting absolute certainty.

What's the difference between "could reason that" and "should reason that"?

"Could reason that" suggests a possibility or a potential inference, while "should reason that" implies a recommendation or obligation to reach a particular conclusion. Therefore, ""could reason that"" is less forceful and more speculative than "should reason that".