this can change

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this can change" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a situation or condition is not fixed and may be subject to alteration in the future. Example: "The schedule for the project is tentative, so please keep in mind that this can change as we receive more information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This can change people".

The Guardian

However, this can change.

The Guardian

"I think this can change with the years," he says.

The New York Times - Arts

Of course, all of this can change in 24 hours.

The New York Times - Magazine

This can change the lumber in a very dramatic way.

Cornell University

This act of terror is a stark reminder of how quickly this can change.

The Guardian - Opinion

This can change people". Otero's interest with community gardening continues too.

The Guardian

"I'm not naive enough to think a scheme like this can change the world," he confides.

The Guardian

This can change from freelancer to freelancer, and if they don't bring it up, you should.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This picture can change with time.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

This number can change dramatically depending on where you live.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this can change", consider adding a brief explanation of the factors that might cause the change. This provides context and transparency, enhancing clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "this can change" without providing any context or explanation. This can lead to uncertainty and confusion. Always clarify what factors might influence the change or when it is likely to occur.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this can change" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating possibility or potential for alteration. It suggests that the current state is not permanent and is subject to modification, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

27%

Wiki

19%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this can change" is a versatile expression used to indicate the possibility of alteration or modification. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general discussions. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings. When using "this can change", it's important to provide context to avoid vagueness and to manage expectations effectively. Alternatives like "this is subject to change" and "this may vary" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is subject to change

Emphasizes the potential for alteration as a condition or requirement.

this may be altered

Focuses on the possibility of modification or adjustment.

this is liable to change

Indicates a high probability of change occurring.

this might be different

Suggests a possibility of a variation or deviation from the current state.

this could be modified

Highlights the potential for adjustments or refinements.

this is not set in stone

Implies that the current state is not permanent or unchangeable.

the situation is fluid

Indicates that the circumstances are dynamic and subject to shifts.

circumstances are not fixed

Emphasizes the impermanence and variability of the conditions.

things are still evolving

Suggests that the situation is in a process of development and transformation.

the future is unwritten

Focuses on the uncertainty and the potential for change in future events.

FAQs

How can I use "this can change" in a sentence?

You can use "this can change" to indicate that a situation or condition is not fixed and may be subject to alteration in the future. For example: "The schedule for the project is tentative, so please keep in mind that this can change as we receive more information."

What are some alternatives to "this can change"?

You can use alternatives like "this may vary" or "this is subject to change" depending on the context.

Is "this can change" grammatically correct?

Yes, "this can change" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English writing and speech. Ludwig AI confirms this.

In what contexts is "this can change" most appropriate?

The phrase is appropriate in a wide range of contexts where you want to acknowledge the potential for future modifications or adjustments. It's commonly used in news reports, academic papers, and general discussions.