could reasonably expect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could reasonably expect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing what someone might anticipate or predict based on logical reasoning or common understanding. Example: "Given the circumstances, one could reasonably expect that the project will be completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The financial settlement, Judge Rakoff said, was "not only fair and reasonable but as good an outcome as anyone could reasonably expect in these difficult circumstances".

The New York Times

Given this summary, you could reasonably expect theatrical extremes, whether sublime or disastrous.

The New York Times

Therefore, consumers could reasonably expect that $4.7 million would be contributed, the state argued.

The New York Times

I thought everything from this point is beyond what I could reasonably expect".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Mozart would later learn what he could reasonably expect of the voice.

The New York Times - Arts

Who could reasonably expect him to scrape by on the $340,000 a year he had been getting?

The New York Times

The 1.6 is just fine, and about what anyone could reasonably expect from an economy car, but it wasn't really what I'd call sprightly.

The New York Times

And given their options, Republican voters have acquitted themselves about as sensibly, responsibly and even patriotically as anyone could reasonably expect.

The New York Times

But they calculated that on Ms. Threatt's $150,000 budget, she could reasonably expect only 1,000 square feet of living space.

The New York Times

He was on fire, playing almost as precisely -- 22-under par for the four days -- as any golfer could reasonably expect.

The New York Times

Lawyers who entered the field as recently as a few years ago could reasonably expect a life of comfort, security and social esteem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could reasonably expect" when you want to convey that an expectation is based on logical deduction, common sense, or established patterns. This phrasing indicates a level of certainty that is more than a mere possibility, but less than a guaranteed outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "could reasonably expect" when discussing highly speculative or uncertain situations. This phrase implies a reasonable degree of confidence in the outcome, so it is unsuitable for scenarios where the outcome is largely unpredictable or dependent on numerous unknown factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could reasonably expect" functions as a modal verb phrase used to express an expectation that is based on logical reasoning or common understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase indicates a level of anticipation that is more than a possibility but less than a certainty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could reasonably expect" is a versatile and frequently used expression for conveying expectations based on logical reasoning or common sense. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and applicable across diverse contexts, from news reporting to scientific discussions. Analysis of example sentences reveals its prevalent use in "News & Media" and "Science", emphasizing its relevance in both general and specialized communications. When writing, ensure you use "could reasonably expect" when the anticipation is grounded in evidence and logic, and avoid overstating certainty in speculative situations. Alternatives such as "might logically anticipate" or "could justifiably foresee" can offer subtle variations in meaning. In summary, mastering the use of "could reasonably expect" enhances clarity and precision in expressing reasoned expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might logically anticipate

Emphasizes a logical deduction leading to the expectation.

could justifiably foresee

Focuses on the justification for predicting a particular outcome.

would have reason to believe

Highlights the reasons supporting a belief or expectation.

may confidently assume

Suggests a confident, though not necessarily certain, assumption.

can safely presume

Implies a presumption based on available evidence and minimal risk.

might realistically project

Emphasizes a realistic and grounded projection of future events.

should logically infer

Focuses on the logical inference that can be made based on given information.

may practically anticipate

Highlights a practical and pragmatic anticipation of events.

are warranted in expecting

Highlights that the expectation is justified.

would naturally assume

Implies a natural or instinctive assumption based on the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "could reasonably expect" in a sentence?

You can use "could reasonably expect" to express an expectation based on logic or previous experience. For example, "Given the investment, one "could reasonably expect" a return within three years."

What are some alternatives to "could reasonably expect"?

Alternatives include phrases like "might logically anticipate", "could justifiably foresee", or "would have reason to believe", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "could reasonably expect" formal or informal?

"Could reasonably expect" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its formality depends on the overall tone of the writing, but the phrase itself is generally considered neutral.

What's the difference between "could reasonably expect" and "might expect"?

"Could reasonably expect" implies a stronger basis for the expectation, relying on logic or evidence. "Might expect" suggests a possibility without necessarily having a strong justification. Therefore, "could reasonably expect" conveys more confidence in the anticipated outcome.