this could change

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this could change" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a situation or condition may be subject to alteration or modification in the future. Example: "The schedule for the project is tentative, so please keep in mind that this could change as we receive more information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

This could change that".

The New York Times

Yet this could change.

The Economist

Still, all this could change.

The New York Times

Now this could change.

The New York Times

All this could change.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This could change from minute to minute".

The New York Times

In the next decade this could change.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With Egypt's help, this could change.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

This too could change!

The Washington Post

This mood could change quickly, however.

The New Yorker

But this course could change that forever.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this could change", provide context about what factors might influence the change. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "this could change" as a standalone statement without explaining what "this" refers to or what factors might cause the change. Always provide necessary context to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this could change" functions as a qualifying statement, suggesting that a particular situation or condition is subject to alteration or modification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. It introduces an element of uncertainty or possibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this could change" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the possibility of future alteration or modification. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across diverse contexts, most frequently in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, its effectiveness is maximized when coupled with clear contextual information. Related phrases such as "this is subject to change" and "this might be different" offer similar hedging capabilities. To ensure clarity, avoid using the phrase in isolation and provide specifics regarding potential influencing factors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is subject to change

Emphasizes the conditional nature of the situation and its potential for alteration.

this might be different

Highlights the possibility of a future state diverging from the current one.

this is liable to vary

Suggests that the situation is prone to fluctuations or changes.

this is open to modification

Focuses on the aspect of being able to alter or adjust the situation.

this is likely to shift

Indicates a high probability of a change in direction or state.

the situation may evolve

Implies a gradual transformation of the circumstances over time.

the outlook is uncertain

Highlights the unpredictable nature of the future outcome.

circumstances may dictate otherwise

Suggests external factors might force a different course of action.

the picture isn't set in stone

Emphasizes the flexibility and potential for change in the current scenario.

future developments could diverge

Highlights the potential for future events to unfold in an unexpected manner.

FAQs

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

Use "this could change" to indicate that a current situation or plan is subject to alteration. For instance, "The deadline is currently set for Friday, but "this could change" depending on the weather."

What are some alternatives to "this could change"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "this is subject to change", "this might be different", or "this is liable to vary".

Is it appropriate to use "this could change" in formal writing?

Yes, "this could change" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when discussing potential future outcomes or modifications to plans. However, ensure the context is clear and the statement is supported by relevant information.

What does "this could change" imply?

"This could change" implies that the current state or condition is not fixed and is susceptible to alteration due to various factors. It suggests a degree of uncertainty and the possibility of a different outcome.