one can know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one can know" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea that it is possible for someone to have knowledge or understanding about something. Example: "In the realm of science, one can know the laws of physics through rigorous study and experimentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

No one can know because much depends on how the Federal Reserve responded to the shock.

The New York Times

No one can know.

The New York Times

But no one can know for sure.

The New York Times - Arts

No one can know what is false.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At this stage, no one can know.

The Economist

No one can know all the answers.

The New York Times

No one can know how.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

No one can know anything.

Harvard Business Review

No one can know you forgot.

The New Yorker

GEORGE PACKER: No one can know.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Fair enough, no-one can know that at this point in time.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one can know" when you want to express a general possibility or capability of knowing something, applicable to anyone.

Common error

Avoid using "one can know" when referring to a specific person or group. Instead, use "they can know" or specify who possesses the ability to know.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one can know" functions as a modal construction expressing the possibility of attaining knowledge. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its usage across various contexts, indicating a general capacity for understanding or awareness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one can know" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that expresses the possibility of someone having knowledge. Ludwig AI indicates that it appears commonly in news and media, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, suggesting a broad applicability but leaning towards more educated or formal discourse. When writing, consider the general nature of the statement and whether a more specific subject would improve clarity. Alternatives like "it is possible to know" or "one may know" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is possible to know

Replaces the modal verb and pronoun with a more formal structure.

one may know

Substitutes "can" with "may", indicating a possibility rather than an ability.

it is knowable

Changes the structure to focus on the quality of being knowable rather than the act of knowing.

knowledge is attainable

Highlights the accessibility of knowledge instead of who can know.

people can understand

Replaces "know" with "understand", emphasizing comprehension.

it's within one's grasp to know

Uses a more figurative expression to suggest the ease of obtaining knowledge.

information can be accessed

Focuses on accessing information, shifting the emphasis from the act of knowing.

the truth is discoverable

Implies that the information is hidden but able to be found.

you are able to find out

Shifts from knowing to the process of finding information.

one is capable of learning

Focuses on the capability to learn, rather than the state of knowing.

FAQs

What does "one can know" mean?

The phrase "one can know" means it is possible for someone, anyone, to have knowledge or understanding about a particular thing. It expresses a general capability or possibility.

How can I use "one can know" in a sentence?

You can use "one can know" to express a general truth or possibility. For example: "In the realm of mathematics, "one can know" the answer through logical deduction."

What are some alternatives to "one can know"?

Alternatives to "one can know" include "it is possible to know", "one may know", or "it is knowable" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "one can know" or "you can know"?

"One can know" is generally more formal than "you can know". Using "one" creates a sense of generality and detachment, suitable for academic or formal writing. "You can know" is more direct and conversational.