it couldn't hurt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it couldn't hurt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to suggest that taking a certain action is unlikely to have negative consequences and may even be beneficial. Example: "If you're unsure about the decision, asking for a second opinion couldn't hurt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But it couldn't hurt.

Independent

Well, it couldn't hurt.

The New Yorker

It couldn't hurt to break the mold.

The New Yorker

It couldn't hurt.' -- Robert E. Bryan.

The New York Times - Magazine

In any case, it couldn't hurt.

The Guardian

"Gerard, I mean?" "It couldn't hurt," my wife said.

The New Yorker

They figured it couldn't hurt to try something new.

The New York Times

If I couldn't feel it, it couldn't hurt me".

The New York Times - Books

"It couldn't hurt to have another friend in New York," he said.

The New York Times

(Newly single, I figured it couldn't hurt to see what kind of excitement might turn up).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

" 'It couldn't hurt to go from the lower price,' " he recalled thinking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it couldn't hurt" in a professional setting, follow it with a clear explanation of the potential upside to emphasize the value of the suggestion.

Common error

While versatile, "it couldn't hurt" can become repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "there's no harm in trying" or "it might be worth a shot" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it couldn't hurt" functions as a hedge or qualifier, softening a suggestion or recommendation. It indicates that while the action might not be necessary or guaranteed to succeed, it's unlikely to cause harm and could potentially be beneficial. Ludwig's examples show its use in offering advice or justifying a course of action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it couldn't hurt" is a versatile phrase used to suggest an action that carries minimal risk and potential benefit. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and high frequency across diverse sources, particularly News & Media, underscore its widespread acceptance. While the phrase fits well into neutral registers, writers should consider alternatives in highly formal or academic contexts to maintain appropriate tone and variety. Remember to use the phrase to encourage action, and minimize fear and perceived risks when giving advice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It won't do any harm

Emphasizes the lack of potential negative consequences.

There's no harm in trying

Highlights the potential benefits with minimal risk.

It can't do any harm

Similar to 'it won't do any harm', reinforcing safety.

It might be worth a shot

Suggests a possibility of success, making it worthwhile.

It's worth a try

Emphasizes the value of attempting something.

It's worth trying

Focuses on the act of trying as a worthwhile endeavor.

Give it a shot

Encourages action with the possibility of a positive outcome.

Give it a try

Similar to 'give it a shot', promoting action.

What's the worst that could happen?

Challenges the hesitation by minimizing potential negative outcomes.

There's nothing to lose

Underlines the absence of potential drawbacks.

FAQs

How can I use "it couldn't hurt" in a sentence?

You can use "it couldn't hurt" to suggest that taking a certain action is unlikely to have negative consequences and might be beneficial. For example, "Asking for a second opinion couldn't hurt".

What does "it couldn't hurt" mean?

The phrase "it couldn't hurt" means that doing something is unlikely to cause any problems and might even be helpful. It's a way of saying there's no risk and potential benefit in trying something.

What can I say instead of "it couldn't hurt"?

Alternatives to "it couldn't hurt" include phrases like "there's no harm in trying", "it won't do any harm", or "it might be worth a shot".

Is "it couldn't hurt" formal or informal?

"It couldn't hurt" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal settings, a more precise or elaborate phrase might be preferable.