could see that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could see that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing the ability to perceive or understand something in a particular context. Example: "As I looked at the evidence, I could see that the theory was flawed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

You could see that over here, too.

The New York Times - Sports

I could see that, you know?

The New York Times - Sports

I could see that before you could.

The New Yorker

"You could see that Kevin was special".

The New York Times - Sports

Nobody else could see that but you.

The Washington Post

He could see that clearly now.

The Guardian - Books

What if I could see that bed.

The New Yorker

"You could see that thing from Jersey".

The New York Times

I could see that someone understood.

The Guardian

We could see that fashion again.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Yeah, I could see that," Jones said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could see that" when you want to express that something was noticeable or understandable from a particular viewpoint or circumstance. For instance, "Looking at the data, I could see that sales were declining."

Common error

Avoid using "could see that" when describing purely hypothetical or speculative situations. It's better suited for instances where there is some observable evidence or basis for understanding. For example, instead of saying "I could see that happening if we didn't act," consider "That might happen if we don't act."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could see that" functions as a clause connector indicating the speaker's ability to perceive or understand a specific situation or fact. It often introduces a statement explaining what was evident or apparent, such as in the Ludwig examples where various individuals "could see that" something was happening or about to happen.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could see that" is a versatile phrase used to indicate understanding or perception based on observation or available information. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, its appropriateness depends on the surrounding text. Related phrases like "could understand that" or "it was clear that" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoid using "could see that" in purely hypothetical scenarios; it's best when there's an observable basis for understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could understand that

Emphasizes comprehension and cognitive understanding rather than visual perception.

could perceive that

Highlights sensory awareness and the process of becoming aware through the senses.

could discern that

Suggests careful observation and the ability to distinguish something clearly.

could tell that

Implies recognition based on subtle clues or indications.

was apparent

Shifts the focus to the obviousness of something, rather than the ability to see it.

was evident

Similar to 'was apparent', emphasizing the clear visibility of something.

could have known that

Highlights possibility of knowing and therefore transforms the main aspect from observation/understanding to knowledge

it was obvious that

Similar to 'was apparent', emphasizing the clear visibility of something, but using a different sentence structure.

it was clear that

Emphasizes clarity and lack of ambiguity.

might have seen that

Indicates a possibility of having seen or realized something.

FAQs

What does "could see that" mean?

"Could see that" means that something was apparent, noticeable, or understandable to someone. It implies a level of understanding or perception based on available information or observation.

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

You can use "could see that" to express that something was evident or predictable to you. For example, "After reviewing the report, I "could see that" the project was failing".

What are some alternatives to "could see that"?

Alternatives include "could understand that", "could perceive that", or "it was clear that", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "could see that" formal or informal?

"Could see that" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing or conversation.