one could contend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one could contend" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce an argument or point of view that someone might support or argue for. Example: "One could contend that the new policy will lead to greater efficiency in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

No one could contend that an ASBO has never been properly or proportionately framed against an offender.

Independent

One could contend that increases in gasoline prices caused the demand for homes to weaken, but the argument is not very compelling, and I do not recall a single mention of that possibility during 2007.

The New York Times

If you take the opposing view, that Aliyun is actually guilty, then one could contend (not unreasonably) that Google should have enforced the same takedown/interference for Haier, which could be a logical candidate for a similar "forked Android OS" (or incompatibility) accusation.

TechCrunch

Bluntly said, one could contend that your own digital traces dictate the boundaries of your personal reality, your bubble.

Huffington Post

One could contend that we are all human beings with egos, only God can judge, and let he who is without sin cast the first internet call-out.

Vice

Writing the New York article with a different thesis in mind, one could contend that we're all demoralized over the stalled economic recovery and turning to antidepressants -- or that we're frustrated and adding antipsychotics to our antidepressant regimens to give them a boost.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

One could argue that it's definitely physically demanding in a way that may be somewhat easier for a man to contend with than a woman, but it's also emotionally demanding.

Huffington Post

Conversely, one could also contend that defending the weak against the oppression of the strong is a moral duty that takes precedence over the right to be left unmolested.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Even so, one could still contend that Moore's proof is non-transmissive because it instantiates the disjunctive template or a variant of it described in Sect.

SEP

With Anthony and Brook Lopez, a talented third-year center, the Nets would have an enviable one-two punch and could contend for a playoff spot.

The New York Times - Sports

The United States is deeper than it has ever been, with almost two dozen women who could contend for one of the six spots on the Olympic team.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "one could contend", follow it with a clear and concise statement of the argument being presented.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions when using "one could contend". While the phrase itself contains a modal verb, ensure the rest of the sentence maintains a clear subject and action. For example, instead of "It could be contended by one that...", consider "One could contend that [subject] [verb]...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one could contend" functions as a modal phrase used to introduce a viewpoint or argument. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates a possibility or suggestion rather than a definitive statement. It is often employed to present a perspective without necessarily endorsing it, similar to how Ludwig provides examples from various sources to illustrate usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one could contend" serves as a modal phrase employed to introduce a potential argument or viewpoint with a degree of neutrality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and frequently appears in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When using "one could contend", strive for clarity, avoid overusing passive voice, and be mindful that it suggests a more assertive position than "one might argue". Keep these nuances in mind to effectively incorporate this phrase into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might be argued

Focuses on the argumentative aspect, suggesting a formal and reasoned presentation.

it is arguable that

Emphasizes the debate or discussion surrounding the topic.

one might suggest

Offers a more tentative and polite alternative, implying a less assertive stance.

it is possible to claim

Highlights the potential for someone to assert a specific viewpoint.

it can be maintained that

Implies a sustained argument or defense of a particular position.

one may assert that

Formally states a position or belief with confidence.

it is conceivable that

Suggests a possibility that is imaginable or believable.

one can presume

Indicates an assumption based on available evidence, although not definitively proven.

it is thinkable that

Expresses the idea is capable of being thought or considered.

one might speculate

Suggests forming a theory or conjecture without firm evidence.

FAQs

How can I use "one could contend" in a sentence?

Use "one could contend" to introduce a possible argument or viewpoint. For example, "One could contend that the benefits of this policy outweigh the risks." It's often used to present a perspective without necessarily endorsing it.

What's a more formal way to say "one could contend"?

More formal alternatives include "it might be argued" or "it is arguable that". These options are suitable for academic or professional writing where a neutral and objective tone is preferred.

What's the difference between "one could contend" and "one might argue"?

"One could contend" suggests a slightly stronger assertion than "one might argue". "Contend" implies a position that someone is prepared to defend, while "argue" simply indicates a point being made.

Is it correct to say "no one could contend"?

Yes, "no one could contend" is a valid phrase used to indicate that a statement is universally accepted or undeniable. For example, "No one could contend that honesty is not important."