presumably we could

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "presumably we could" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting a possibility or assumption about what might be done in a given situation. Example: "Presumably we could find a solution to this problem if we work together."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Presumably, we could use the numbers Mr Feyrer presents above to determine which potential canals are likely to generate the highest income returns, and those expected returns could be compared to the expected cost of construction.

The Economist

If faith were so open, so blind, then presumably we could also affirm the various illusions of theoretical reason as well.

SEP

Presumably we could have utilized SNP databases for NANOG to identify additional polymorphisms.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Presumably we could not recapitulate the productive interaction between Skp and the β domain that occurs in vivo, or a factor that is required to release Skp from client proteins was not present (or was present but not fully functional) in our assay.

eLife

Presumably, we could not demarcate the subject matter of any of the special sciences, for example, biology or mathematics, and we would not be able to distinguish between what something is, for example a human being or a rabbit, and what it is like, for example pale or white.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Presumably, if we could understand what factors can effectively regulate AFC in ALI, either endogenously or exogenously, then effective therapies could be designed to increase AFC in ALI.

Critical Care

This result arises presumably because although we could not detect activity in our standard kinetic assays (Table 1), the Y137A mutant has an extremely low level of activity in the crystal sufficient for turnover to take place.

ACS Chemical Biology

Only by studying the over 51 years old group of patients (presumably post menopausal) we could detect a difference between the different MDM2 SNP309 genotypes – only in the BRCA1 mutation carriers.

BMC Cancer

We presumably mean "historically" — or we could use a specific period of time ("for decades").

The New York Times

If we begin to reshape our own genetic code, we could presumably achieve even greater variation among our human descendants.

The New York Times

In theory, we could presumably discover the complete causal story about why each organism in the population left exactly the number of offspring that it did.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "presumably we could", follow it with a clear and specific action or outcome. This makes the sentence more impactful and easier to understand.

Common error

Avoid using "presumably we could" when you have concrete evidence or are stating a fact. This phrase implies a degree of uncertainty, so using it in situations where certainty exists can undermine the strength of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "presumably we could" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a modal verb phrase. "Presumably" indicates an assumption or likelihood, while "we could" expresses possibility or ability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "presumably we could" is a grammatically sound phrase used to suggest possibilities based on assumptions. Ludwig AI validates this. It appears mainly in science and news contexts, conveying a neutral tone. While not highly frequent, it serves as a useful way to introduce tentative actions or outcomes. When using the phrase, ensure the assumption is appropriate for the context and that the following action is clearly defined. While related to phrases that express possibility or expectation, it’s important to consider the level of certainty you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is likely we could

Replaces "presumably" with a more direct indicator of probability.

it is probable we could

Substitutes "presumably" with a stronger term for likelihood.

we might reasonably

Expresses possibility with a touch of justification.

we can reasonably assume

Explicitly states the assumption being made.

we can infer that we could

Highlights the process of deduction involved.

it stands to reason we could

Suggests a logical progression leading to the possibility.

it seems logical we could

Focuses on the logical aspect of the potential action.

one might assume we could

Introduces a degree of speculation and generality.

we are led to believe we could

Implies external information or evidence supports the possibility.

we could reasonably expect

Shifts the focus to anticipating a certain outcome based on reasonable grounds.

FAQs

How can I use "presumably we could" in a sentence?

Use "presumably we could" to suggest a possibility or assumption about a future action. For example, "Presumably we could find a solution if we collaborate."

What phrases are similar to "presumably we could"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it is likely we could", "we might reasonably", or "we can infer that we could", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to start a sentence with "presumably"?

While starting a sentence with "presumably" is grammatically correct, consider the flow and emphasis of your writing. Sometimes placing "presumably" mid-sentence can improve readability.

What is the difference between "presumably we could" and "certainly we could"?

"Presumably we could" implies an assumption based on available information, while "certainly we could" suggests a higher degree of confidence and assurance.