could we sanction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could we sanction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of imposing a penalty or approval for an action or behavior. Example: "Could we sanction the proposal if it meets all the necessary criteria?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nor could we know that sanctions would ultimately help create a free South Africa.

The New York Times

Fracking has meant we could sanction Iran's oil exports and barely feel the consequences at the pump.

The New York Times

There could be a reaction if we sanction countries too broadly.

Columbia University

"If we are not in agreement with the norms and the directives of the Single European Sky, we could be sanctioned as a country," said Isabel Maestre, director of A.E.S.A., the Spanish air safety agency.

The New York Times

"Over the last few years we haven't been as aggressive as we could in enforcing sanctions against Iran".

The New York Times

"If all possibilities for influencing the situation have been exhausted, we could consider international sanctions".

The New York Times

"The goal is to stop their missile cooperation with Pakistan, and if they stop, we could waive the sanctions," the senior official said today.

The New York Times

"My personal objective when I got here in August was to work very hard to improve Pakistani-American relations, with the aim that at the end of my three years here we could lift American sanctions on Pakistan," Ms. Chamberlin said in a recent interview.

The New York Times

We could have withstood sanctions for many more years.

HuffPost

"We could pay a sanctioning fee for this one of about $1 million," Arum said, as Schaefer nodded agreement, "and then we could pay for hotel suites and limos for all the people they bring to the fight". Ultimately, the luncheon was a river, flowing in several directions.

Los Angeles Times

The High Court ruled that the WICB could not sanction the game without Digicel's approval.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could we sanction", ensure the context clearly indicates who 'we' refers to (e.g. a specific organization, government, or group) and what authority 'we' have to impose sanctions. This clarifies the legitimacy and scope of the action being considered.

Common error

Avoid using "could we sanction" in contexts where the speaker or group lacks the actual power to impose sanctions. This can lead to misinterpretations and undermine credibility. Instead, phrase it as a suggestion or recommendation to the appropriate authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could we sanction" functions as an interrogative expression used to explore the possibility or appropriateness of imposing sanctions. It combines the modal verb 'could,' indicating possibility or conditional ability, with a question seeking validation or authorization.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could we sanction" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that expresses an inquiry into the possibility, feasibility, or appropriateness of imposing sanctions. While Ludwig shows that exact examples of this phrase in use are currently limited, the phrase's structure and meaning are clear. It's important to consider the context, the authority of the speaker, and the potential consequences before using this phrase. Alternatives such as "should we impose sanctions?" or "are we able to sanction?" may be more suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Though its current usage may be uncommon, understanding its function can help you use it effectively when discussing governance, policy, or management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Should we impose sanctions?

Inquires about the appropriateness of imposing sanctions.

Can we apply sanctions?

Focuses on the ability to implement sanctions.

Is it possible to sanction?

Explores the feasibility of applying sanctions.

May we implement sanctions?

Asks for permission or approval to apply sanctions.

Are we able to sanction?

Addresses the capacity and authority to impose sanctions.

Shall we consider sanctions?

Suggests a deliberation on whether to apply sanctions.

Might we consider sanctions?

Introduces a more tentative consideration of sanctions.

Would it be appropriate to sanction?

Questions the suitability of applying sanctions.

Could sanctions be an option for us?

Framing sanctions as one potential solution to explore.

Are sanctions a viable route for us to take?

Examines if sanctions are a feasible method for achieving a certain goal.

FAQs

How can I use "could we sanction" in a sentence?

Use "could we sanction" when inquiring whether it's possible or advisable for a specific entity to impose sanctions, as in, "Given the severity of the violation, could we sanction the company by suspending their trading privileges?"

What are some alternatives to "could we sanction"?

Alternatives include "should we impose sanctions?", "are we able to sanction?", or "is it possible to sanction?", depending on whether you're questioning the appropriateness, capability, or feasibility of imposing sanctions.

Which is correct, "could we sanction" or "can we sanction"?

"Could we sanction" and "can we sanction" are both grammatically correct, but "could we sanction" often implies a greater degree of politeness or uncertainty compared to the more direct "can we sanction".

What does "could we sanction" imply?

"Could we sanction" suggests an inquiry into the permissibility, feasibility, or advisability of imposing a penalty or restrictive measure, often implying a deliberation or evaluation process.