possibly we can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possibly we can" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting a potential action or idea that may be feasible but is not certain. Example: "Possibly we can collaborate on this project if our schedules align."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Possibly, we can restore some of these kelp forests by looking at alternative hardier seaweeds that can live in warmer waters and replace the old kelp with those..

Vice

"So if you have respect for the person who's standing next to you, which is really what it's all about, then possibly we can act more gently".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Possibly, but we can dream.

Independent

Possibly, together, we can reach the broadcasting authorities' threshold for "fair coverage" during the election period.

The Guardian

We want to win all the games we possibly can, but we've got to stay alive".

The New York Times - Sports

"We want to provide the broadest possible entertainment we possibly can".

Los Angeles Times

He added, "We've cracked the nut as far as knowing as much about the music as we possibly can automatically, and we see the next frontier as knowing as much as we possibly can about the listener".

The New Yorker

Mr. Wolfowitz nevertheless vowed "to do it as quickly as we possibly can, and as generously as we possibly can".

The New York Times

Are we doing everything we possibly can?

The New York Times

We do everything we possibly can not to.

Vice

We want to get closer and we will do everything we possibly can to do that".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "possibly we can" to introduce a suggestion or potential course of action, especially when you want to acknowledge uncertainty or explore different options. This phrase is suitable when you are brainstorming or discussing possibilities with others.

Common error

Avoid using "possibly we can" when you are confident about an outcome. This phrase implies uncertainty, so using it when certainty exists can undermine your credibility. Instead, opt for a more direct statement like "we can" or "we will".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possibly we can" primarily functions as an introductory expression to a suggestion or potential course of action. It indicates a degree of uncertainty or possibility, opening up a discussion about what might be achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "possibly we can" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-toned expression used to introduce tentative suggestions or potential actions. According to Ludwig AI, it's most commonly found in News & Media contexts. While its frequency is uncommon, it serves the purpose of opening up discussions about what might be achieved while acknowledging a degree of uncertainty. For more formal situations, phrases like "it is possible that we could" may be more appropriate. Remember to avoid redundancy by not combining "possibly we can" with other words like "potentially". Overall, use "possibly we can" when exploring options and inviting consideration rather than making definitive statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is possible that we could

Substitutes "possibly" with the more explicit "it is possible that", increasing clarity.

maybe we are able to

Uses "maybe" instead of "possibly", creating a more informal tone.

it's conceivable that we could

Replaces "possibly" with "it's conceivable that", adding a slightly more formal tone.

perhaps we might be able to

Replaces "can" with "might be able to", suggesting a slightly lower degree of certainty.

there's a chance we might

Introduces "there's a chance" to convey a hopeful perspective.

it's not impossible for us to

Employs a double negative to express possibility, sounding more cautious.

we might just be able to

Adds "just" for emphasis, highlighting a potential, albeit slim, possibility.

we could potentially

Combines "could" with "potentially" for redundancy that reinforces possibility.

we may have the capacity to

Replaces "can" with "may have the capacity to", indicating a formal capability.

it is within the realm of possibility that we

Expresses possibility in a more elaborate and formal way.

FAQs

How can I use "possibly we can" in a sentence?

You can use "possibly we can" to express a potential action or suggestion, as in, "Possibly we can find a solution if we collaborate".

What's a more formal alternative to "possibly we can"?

For a more formal tone, you might consider using "it is possible that we could" or "it's conceivable that we could".

Is it redundant to use "possibly we can potentially"?

Yes, using "possibly we can potentially" is generally redundant because both "possibly" and "potentially" convey a similar sense of uncertainty. Choose one or the other for clarity.

Can "possibly we can" be used in questions?

While less common, "possibly we can" can be incorporated into questions, such as, "Is it that possibly we can get started now?". However, rephrasing the question for clarity is often preferable.