that could result

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that could result" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a potential outcome or consequence of a specific action or situation. Example: "The changes in policy are significant and that could result in a shift in public opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

With luck, that could result in fewer broken lives.

The Economist

"Nono liked the confusion that could result," said Gianmario Borio, an Italian musicologist.

The New York Times - Arts

Prosecutors have agreed to recommend a sentence for Nathaniel Nicholson, 25, that could result in probation.

The New York Times

Authorities are also looking at other issues that could result in criminal charges against Anderson's wife.

The New York Times - Sports

Let's avoid steps that could result in protectionism that would further contract global trade.

The Guardian

It's a "raid," Sam Brownback warned, that could result in the elderly losing "necessary care".

The New York Times

Mr. Muhammad faces two murder charges that could result in a death sentence.

The New York Times

Days from a referendum that could result in Britain leaving the European Union, all are anxious.

The Guardian

This commission would create a highly partisan process that could result in gridlock and more litigation.

The New York Times

This study focuses on the likelihood of events that could result in fatalities or injuries.

International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control

They avoid inaccurate extrapolations that could result in an excessive number of experiments to confirm predictions.

Computer Aided Chemical Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "that could result" with stronger verbs if a more direct and impactful tone is desired. For example, use 'cause', 'create', or 'trigger' when the context allows for a more assertive connection between the action and the outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "that could result" when the outcome is highly improbable. Overstating the possibility can weaken your argument or appear misleading. Instead, use language that accurately reflects the likelihood of the result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that could result" serves as a modal verb phrase, indicating a potential consequence or outcome. Ludwig indicates that it is grammatically correct. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in diverse contexts, from news reports to scientific articles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

33%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "that could result" is a versatile tool for expressing potential outcomes and consequences across various contexts. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in both formal and informal settings. As a modal verb phrase, it introduces an element of possibility rather than certainty. Remember to ensure that there is a logical relation between events and be careful not to overstate the likelihood of an outcome. Consider using "that might lead to" or similar phrases for subtle variations in meaning. The phrase is used across source types, however, it is more likely to find it across News & Media and Scientific sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that might lead to

Replaces "could" with "might", suggesting a slightly lower probability of the outcome.

that may bring about

Substitutes "result" with "bring about", indicating a cause-and-effect relationship.

that can give rise to

Uses "give rise to" instead of "result", focusing on the origin of the outcome.

that has the potential to cause

Emphasizes the potential for causation, making the outcome seem more significant.

that could potentially create

Adds "potentially create", highlighting the creation aspect of the result.

that might generate

Replaces "result" with "generate", suggesting the creation of something new.

that can produce

Focuses on the ability to produce a specific outcome.

that could trigger

Suggests that the action initiates a specific reaction or sequence of events.

that may culminate in

Indicates that the action could lead to a final, significant outcome.

that has the capacity to effect

Uses a more formal tone by using 'capacity' and 'effect'.

FAQs

How can I use "that could result" in a sentence?

Use "that could result" to introduce a potential outcome or consequence of a preceding action or situation. For example, "Increased investment in renewable energy sources is essential, and that could result in a significant reduction in carbon emissions."

What phrases are similar to "that could result"?

Alternatives include "that might lead to", "that may bring about", or "that can give rise to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "that could result in" or "that may result in"?

Both "that could result in" and "that may result in" are grammatically correct and interchangeable. "Could" suggests a possibility, while "may" also suggests a possibility but might imply a slightly lower degree of certainty.

What's the difference between "that could result" and "that will result"?

"That could result" indicates a potential outcome that is not guaranteed. In contrast, "that will result" suggests a more certain or inevitable outcome. The choice depends on the degree of certainty you want to convey.