this could vary

USAGE SUMMARY

"this could vary" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are describing something that is not fixed or when something is subject to change. For example, "The number of people attending the party this weekend could vary depending on the weather."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The Copyright Office representative replied, "This could vary from one situation to another, I guess.

Harvard University

Food that is immediately available for consumption could elicit stronger reward system activity and associated cognitive control than food that is not currently available for consumption and this could vary as a function of energy density.

Appetite

This could vary depending on the role.

Forbes

The reason for this could vary from someone being vulnerable to avoiding a contempt of court.

BBC

The difference in the number and size of the miRNA members and families, respectively, is probably shaped by the roles of specific miRNAs, and this could vary somewhat from species to species.

Rice

In general, each case manager was employed to work 50%% full time, but this could vary during the study period depending on the number of employed case managers and the case load.

Health Economics Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Like many of the details, in the absence of federal legislation, this ultimately could vary from state to state.

The Washington Post

However, this performance could vary depending on the pump.

ROBOMECH Journal

But this statistic could vary widely across discipline, said Christine Des Jarlais, assistant dean of postdoctoral affairs.

Science Magazine

This fraction could vary because spontaneous switches occur at random intervals during continuous viewing, and also because the number of switches varied.

Plosone

Obviously, TLR4A 896 G gene polymorphism are associated with adult susceptibility to UTIs, but this relationship could vary in different populations and disease types.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this could vary" to acknowledge potential differences or changes in a given situation. It is particularly useful when providing a general overview where specific details might differ.

Common error

Avoid using "this could vary" as a filler phrase without providing context or specific examples. Always aim to clarify what could vary and why to give your statement more weight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this could vary" primarily functions as a modal phrase expressing possibility or potential change. It serves to qualify a statement, indicating that the situation or factor being discussed is not fixed and may differ depending on circumstances. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this could vary" is a versatile phrase used to express the possibility of change or difference, and Ludwig AI confirms that it's correct and usable in written English. It commonly appears in scientific, news, and wiki contexts, reflecting its adaptability across various registers. When using this phrase, ensure that the context provides clear indications of what might vary and why, preventing vagueness. Alternatives such as "this is subject to change" or "this may differ" can be used in more formal settings. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use "this could vary" to convey nuanced and accurate information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is subject to change

Changes the modal verb and uses a more direct expression of potential alteration.

this is liable to differ

Employs a different adjective to indicate a tendency to diverge.

this may fluctuate

Replaces "vary" with a verb that suggests irregular variation.

this might be different

Uses simpler language to express the possibility of dissimilarity.

this is not fixed

Focuses on the lack of stability or permanence.

this is contingent

Indicates that the outcome depends on other factors.

this is dependent on

Highlights the reliance on external conditions.

this is variable

Uses an adjective to describe the changeable nature.

this is not consistent

Emphasizes the lack of uniformity.

this is not uniform

Underscores the absence of a standard state.

FAQs

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

Use "this could vary" to indicate a possibility of change or difference. For example, "The cost of the project "this could vary" depending on the materials used".

What's a more formal alternative to "this could vary"?

In formal writing, you might use phrases like "this is subject to change", "this may differ", or "this is variable" to convey a similar meaning with a more elevated tone.

Is it correct to say "this can vary" instead of "this could vary"?

Yes, "this can vary" is also correct and expresses a similar idea. "Could" implies possibility, while "can" suggests general ability or potential.

How does the context influence the use of "this could vary"?

The context determines the specifics of what might change. Always ensure that the sentence provides enough information about the element that "is subject to change".