one can suppose

USAGE SUMMARY

"one can suppose" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest something without providing evidence or proof. For example, "One can suppose that the weather will be better tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Based on this fact, one can suppose that the quasi-continuous Ag film (Fig. 2b) will demonstrate the maximum SERS performance, because the closely packed Ag agglomerates promote an abundance of vacancies for so-called hot spots, i.e., the scattering cross section of the analyte molecules should drastically increase.

Nanoscale Research Letters

By this matching carried out on known and measured factors, one can suppose that the subjects of the same pair also share non-observable, not observed or not measured factors, in addition to the factors of pairing.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Keeping in mind its pro-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective properties, as well as its influence on cell proliferation and migration [20], one can suppose that expression of HO-1 may play a role in the process of wound healing.

Plosone

Since the main part of the whisker conductance is believed to occur on the whisker surface, like that in Si whiskers [12], one can suppose that the partial superconductivity of the whiskers should take place on their surface.

Nanoscale Research Letters

One can suppose, therefore, that amnestic abilities do not have an impact on WTMT performance.

Clinical interventions in aging

If his residence is being defended, one can suppose he is inside it," Mr. Yapi said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The pictures, so profuse one can imagine the supposed editor appearing ruefully on an episode of "Hoarders," are organized in three sections: "Scenes" (a tour of global "hot spots"), "Fashion" and "Faces" — the last more-formal portraits.

The New York Times - Books

I suppose one can imagine circumstances in which a sufficiently charismatic "centrist" third-partier could hope to win a Presidential election.

The New Yorker

"Only madmen, one would think, can suppose that militias have a constitutional right to levy war against the United States, which is treason by constitutional definition," Wills wrote.

The New Yorker

There is scarcely anything in the film that touches on South Africa politically, culturally or geographically, and one can only suppose that the script was relocated there to take advantage of local tax breaks.

The Guardian - Film

One can only suppose it approved of the music.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one can suppose" when you want to introduce a hypothesis or a reasoned guess, especially in academic or formal writing. It's suitable when you don't have definitive proof but want to suggest a logical possibility.

Common error

Avoid using "one can suppose" in everyday conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious. Simpler alternatives like "I guess" or "I think" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one can suppose" functions as an introductory phrase to express a hypothesis, assumption, or reasoned guess. It introduces an idea that is being considered based on available information, as demonstrated by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

28%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one can suppose" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a hypothesis or reasoned guess. It's very common, particularly in scientific and news-related contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its usage. While suitable for formal writing, consider alternatives in informal settings to avoid sounding pretentious. As the Ludwig AI examples demonstrate, this phrase introduces a proposition for further exploration, rather than stating a definitive fact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is reasonable to assume

This phrase indicates a logical assumption based on the circumstances.

it seems likely that

This indicates a high probability based on current information.

it is plausible to think

This suggests an idea is believable and worthy of consideration.

it stands to reason that

This phrase indicates a logical conclusion based on what is known.

it is conceivable that

This indicates something is possible, though perhaps not likely.

we might infer

This suggests a conclusion drawn from evidence or reasoning.

it is inferable that

Highlights the ability to draw a conclusion based on available data.

we could speculate

This implies making a guess about something, often without firm evidence.

we can surmise

This indicates a conclusion reached with limited evidence.

it is not unlikely that

This suggests a possibility worth considering.

FAQs

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

Use "one can suppose" to introduce a suggestion, hypothesis, or reasoned guess based on available information. For example, "Based on the data, one can suppose that the new policy will be effective."

What are some alternatives to "one can suppose"?

You can use alternatives such as "it is reasonable to assume", "it seems likely that", or "we might infer" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "one can suppose" or "we can suppose"?

"One can suppose" is generally more formal and impersonal, while "we can suppose" is more inclusive. The choice depends on the context and the desired tone of your writing. In academic or formal writing, "one can suppose" is often preferred.

When is it inappropriate to use "one can suppose"?

Avoid using "one can suppose" when you have concrete evidence or proof. In such cases, stating the fact directly is more effective. Also, in very informal settings, it might sound overly formal or stilted.