it cannot be excluded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it cannot be excluded" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing possibilities or scenarios that cannot be ruled out. Example: "While we have strong evidence for our hypothesis, it cannot be excluded that other factors may also be at play."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It cannot be excluded.

The New York Times

"It cannot be excluded," he said, as reported by Eurosport.com.

The New York Times - Sports

Asked whether such a directive was likely, Mr. Höltgen said, "It cannot be excluded".

The New York Times

Therefore, it is unlikely that this virus would cause disease in humans, but it cannot be excluded at this stage".

The Guardian

It cannot be excluded that more characteristics will emerge in the future.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

However, it cannot be excluded that fee discrimination lowers patient welfare.

Health Economics Review

In such conditions, it cannot be excluded that K 1 may show considerable inter-individual variability.

EJNMMI Research

It cannot be excluded that all the above-mentioned mechanisms could act together.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

It cannot be excluded that the water at "Outlet" contained traces of domestic wastewater.

Environmental Sciences Europe

It cannot be excluded, however, that the explanation is much more complicated.

Botanical Studies

In addition, it cannot be excluded that several mechanisms play roles at the same time.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it cannot be excluded" to acknowledge potential alternative explanations or outcomes when presenting research or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "it cannot be excluded" when a more direct affirmative statement is appropriate; overuse can weaken the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it cannot be excluded" functions as an epistemic modal, indicating a degree of uncertainty or possibility. Ludwig provides many examples, demonstrating that it is often used to acknowledge potential alternative explanations or outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

15%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it cannot be excluded" functions as a formal way to acknowledge a possibility or alternative explanation, particularly in scientific and academic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used in both Science and News & Media, indicating its relevance in discussions of uncertainty. While effective for maintaining neutrality, it's important not to overuse this phrase, as more direct statements may sometimes be more impactful. Consider alternatives such as "it is possible" or "it is not impossible" in different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is not out of the question

Indicates that something is within the realm of possibility, though perhaps unlikely.

it is not impossible

Emphasizes the lack of impossibility rather than direct possibility.

it is not beyond the bounds of possibility

Implies that while unlikely, the event could still occur.

it is a possibility

Highlights the existence of a potential outcome.

it remains a possibility

Stresses that a potential outcome still exists.

it is possible

Expresses a general possibility, differing in tone and directness.

it is within the realm of possibility

Highlights compatibility with the existing conditions or context.

it is conceivable

Suggests that something is imaginable or believable, but not necessarily likely.

it could happen

A simple way to express the potential for an event to occur.

it may be the case

Suggests a degree of uncertainty or speculation about a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "it cannot be excluded" in a sentence?

Use "it cannot be excluded" to suggest a possibility that should be considered. For example, "While the data suggests X, "it cannot be excluded" that Y also plays a role."

What's a simpler way to say "it cannot be excluded"?

Alternatives include "it is possible", "it is not impossible", or "it could happen". Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and context of your writing.

When is it appropriate to use "it cannot be excluded" over "it is unlikely"?

"It cannot be excluded" is suitable when acknowledging a possibility that exists despite evidence to the contrary. "It is unlikely" suggests a low probability, whereas ""it cannot be excluded"" simply concedes that the possibility is still there.

Is "it cannot be excluded" too formal for casual writing?

Yes, ""it cannot be excluded"" leans towards formal usage. For more casual contexts, consider using "it could be" or "maybe".