it can occur

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it can occur' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you are making a statement about something that is possible or likely to happen. For example, "Climate change is a global issue; it can occur on a local, regional, and global level."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"With rainfall of that magnitude, it you get similar situation, yes, it can occur," he said.

The New York Times

It can occur at anytime before, during or after a diagnosis.

The Guardian

No, it can occur at any time of day Does it happen to everyone?

The Guardian

And it can occur at any moment, even or perhaps especially in cars.

The New York Times

It can occur the first time a person is exposed to a trigger.

The New York Times - Health

"However, I have seen it happen so know it can occur".

The New York Times

Glycolysis is an anaerobic reaction; that is, it can occur even in the absence of oxygen.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rigor mortis doesn't always occur in the dead, and it can occur in the living.

The New York Times - Books

The non-violent nature of protest in this country ensures that it can occur.

The New York Times

Although most common in children, it can occur at any age.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But it can occur in patients like this one who are not Asian.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it can occur" to indicate that something is possible but not necessarily certain. Be specific about the conditions under which it might occur to provide clarity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, repeatedly using "it can occur" might make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "it is possible" or "it may happen" for a more engaging and sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can occur" functions as an impersonal construction used to express the possibility or potential for something to happen. As Ludwig AI confirms, the structure adheres to standard grammatical rules, making it suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

28%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it can occur" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the possibility of something happening. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility makes it suitable for diverse contexts ranging from scientific literature to news reports. While synonymous alternatives like "it is possible" or "it may happen" exist, understanding the subtle nuances each conveys can enhance your writing. Remember to use it judiciously, and be mindful of potential overuse. Its broad applicability makes it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is possible

Replaces "occur" with a more general expression of possibility. Semantic similarity is very high.

it is likely to happen

Emphasizes the probability of the event, replacing "occur" with a phrase indicating likelihood.

it may happen

Uses "may" to express possibility, providing a slightly less formal alternative.

it is liable to happen

Indicates a tendency or susceptibility, adding a nuance of inevitability.

it could take place

Substitutes "occur" with "take place", focusing on the event happening at a specific time or location.

it might arise

Replaces "occur" with "arise", suggesting that something emerges or comes into existence.

it is apt to happen

Indicates a natural tendency, adding a specific connotation to the possibility.

it has the potential to happen

Highlights the inherent possibility, framing it as a latent capacity.

it is conceivable

Emphasizes that something is within the realm of possibility or imagination.

it is not out of the question

Expresses possibility by negating impossibility, often used to imply a cautious acceptance.

FAQs

How can I use "it can occur" in a sentence?

Use "it can occur" to express that something is possible or may happen. For example, "With proper precautions, the risk of infection is minimal, but "it can occur"".

What are some alternatives to "it can occur"?

You can use alternatives such as "it is possible", "it may happen", or "it is liable to happen" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "it can occur" or "it could occur"?

Both "it can occur" and "it could occur" are grammatically correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. "It can occur" suggests a general possibility, while "it could occur" implies a conditional or hypothetical possibility.

What's the difference between "it can occur" and "it does occur"?

"It can occur" indicates that something is possible. "It does occur" states that something actually happens. The first expresses potential, while the second expresses actuality.