it stands to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it stands to" can be used in written English, but it is not commonly used on its own.
It is usually used as part of a longer phrase, such as "it stands to reason" or "it stands to benefit." Example: "It stands to reason that if you invest more time and effort into your studies, you will see an improvement in your grades."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But if China's workers are ageing, it stands to reason that its customers are maturing too.

The Economist

It stands to reason.

The Times

"It stands to reason," Mr. Dergarabedian said.

The New York Times

It's true, because it stands to reason.

The Guardian

"It stands to reason," he said.

The New York Times

It stands to lose a lot by reducing trade.

The Economist

Yet it stands to lose $25 million from the cuts.

The New York Times

It stands to reason, doesn't it?Perhaps not.

The Economist

So it stands to reason that fires may actually decrease.

The Guardian

What an occasion it stands to be for him.

The Guardian - Sport

It stands to reason that some must've shared a name.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it stands to" followed by a verb to indicate a likely outcome or possibility based on current circumstances. For instance, "it stands to benefit" or "it stands to reason" are common and effective ways to employ this phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "it stands to" when you want to express a definite certainty. This phrase conveys a probability or potential, not an absolute guarantee. Use stronger expressions when certainty is intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it stands to" primarily functions as an introductory expression to indicate a potential consequence, benefit, or logical inference. It suggests a likelihood or possibility, rather than a certainty. Examples from Ludwig show its usage in various contexts, confirming this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

25%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it stands to" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a probable outcome or logical inference. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and high frequency, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While generally neutral, its formality can vary based on surrounding text. To ensure accurate and effective writing, remember that it signals likelihood, not certainty, and should be followed by a verb expressing the potential consequence. Consider semantically related phrases like "it is bound to" or "it is poised to" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is bound to

Indicates a certainty or inevitability based on circumstances.

it is set to

Focuses on a scheduled or planned event.

it is poised to

Focuses on readiness or likelihood for a specific outcome.

it is positioned to

Highlights a strategic advantage or favorable situation.

it is liable to

Highlights a higher probability of experiencing something, often negative.

it is on track to

Indicates progress toward a specific goal or outcome.

it is apt to

Emphasizes a natural tendency or suitability.

it is slated to

Emphasizes that something is officially scheduled or planned.

it is inclined to

Suggests a predisposition or leaning toward a particular action or result.

it is destined to

Implies a predetermined or fated outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "it stands to reason" in a sentence?

Use "it stands to reason" to introduce a logical conclusion. For example, "Since the weather is getting warmer, "it stands to reason" that we should start planting our garden."

What does "it stands to benefit" mean?

"It stands to benefit" means that something is likely to gain an advantage or positive outcome from a particular situation. For instance, "The company "it stands to benefit" from the new trade agreement."

Are there alternatives to saying "it stands to reason"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "logically", "consequently", or "therefore" to convey a similar sense of logical deduction. For example, "Therefore, we should invest more in education". See also "it is bound to".

Is "it stood to" the past tense of "it stands to"?

Yes, "it stood to" is the past tense form. For example, "The company "it stood to" make a significant profit before the market crashed."