that could work

USAGE SUMMARY

"that could work" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to suggest a solution to a problem. For example: "We could make a new website, that could work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

One that could work?

The New York Times

"Anything that could work, we tried.

The New York Times - Sports

Is that something that could work against the show?

The New York Times

"There were modern plays that could work," he said.

The New York Times

And it is the only approach that could work".

The Guardian

It's simple, real world stuff that could work tomorrow.

The Guardian

This is something that could work in United's favour.

The Guardian - Sport

But adding to the debate, and raising awareness in an eye-catching way – that could work.

Independent

He ran into more trouble finding machinery that could work in such narrow confines.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

How do I find discounts that could work for me?

Independent

That could work Monday night.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that could work" to introduce a suggestion or a plan that has a reasonable chance of success. It is suitable for brainstorming sessions or when evaluating different options.

Common error

While "that could work" is versatile, it might sound too informal in certain professional or academic settings. Opt for alternatives like "that is potentially viable" or "that may be a feasible solution" to maintain a more formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that could work" functions as a modal phrase expressing possibility or potential suitability. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and used to suggest solutions or positive outcomes. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts, such as proposing ideas or evaluating options.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that could work" is a versatile phrase used to suggest potential solutions or express tentative agreement. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral, its level of formality should be adjusted based on the specific setting, opting for more precise alternatives in academic or professional scenarios. Remembering that "that could work" implies possibility rather than certainty is also crucial for accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that might succeed

Emphasizes a possibility of success, slightly less direct than the original phrase.

that may be feasible

Highlights the practicality and achievability of something.

that has potential

Focuses on the inherent possibility for positive outcomes.

that is a possibility

States that something is merely possible, with no guarantees.

that is worth a try

Suggests an experiment, a test with an uncertain outcome.

that is potentially viable

Highlights the ability to survive and develop successfully.

that is a promising approach

Focuses on the approach being hopeful and indicating future success.

that offers a solution

Highlights the problem-solving capabilities.

that could be effective

Focuses on the effectiveness of something.

that's a plausible option

Underlines that something is believable and reasonable.

FAQs

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

You can use "that could work" to suggest a solution or express the possibility of a positive outcome. For instance, "If we try a different approach, that could work".

What are some alternatives to "that could work"?

Alternatives include "that might succeed", "that may be feasible", or "that has potential", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "that could work"?

"That could work" is suitable in many contexts, from casual conversations to professional discussions. However, consider the level of formality required; in highly formal settings, more precise alternatives might be preferred.

Is "that could work" the same as "that will work"?

No, "that could work" indicates a possibility or suggestion, whereas "that will work" expresses a higher degree of certainty about the success of something. Use "that could work" when you're not entirely sure but see potential, and “that will work” when you are confident in a solution.