we can actually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can actually" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a point or to indicate that something is possible or true in a surprising or unexpected way. Example: "After reviewing the data, we can actually conclude that our initial hypothesis was correct."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We've proven that we can actually play".

The New York Times - Sports

We can actually make people happier.

The New York Times - Magazine

I mean, somewhere we can actually visit".

The Guardian - Travel

Meanwhile, we can actually follow his advice.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can actually observe those fights in nature.

Yale University

And we can actually take this one step further.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

PROFESSOR: And then we can actually make it go up.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We can actually tell you where the animals were raised.

The New York Times

We can actually see the sound affect each image.

The New York Times

From these conversations, we can actually learn a lot.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

So I think we can actually turn that around".

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can actually" to introduce a surprising or non-obvious capability. This emphasizes that the ability is noteworthy or unexpected.

Common error

Avoid using "we can actually" in every sentence, as overuse diminishes its impact and can make your writing sound repetitive. Reserve it for instances where you want to highlight a genuine surprise or significant ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can actually" primarily functions as an emphasizer modifying a verb phrase. It indicates a capability or possibility that is perhaps surprising or newly realized. Ludwig's examples show it used to highlight abilities or actions that are achievable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can actually" is a common and versatile expression used to emphasize a capability or possibility. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific writing. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse audiences, and while it's important to avoid overuse, it remains a useful tool for highlighting surprising or newly realized abilities. Alternatives such as "we are able to" or "we can indeed" can be used for variety or to adjust the level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can indeed

Adds emphasis using 'indeed' to reinforce the possibility or capability.

we are able to

Replaces the modal verb 'can' with the more formal 'are able to', indicating capability.

we have the ability to

Highlights the ability or capacity to perform an action.

we are now capable of

Focuses on current capability to perform a task.

it is possible for us to

Shifts the focus to possibility while retaining the meaning.

we now have the capacity to

Emphasizes newly acquired capability or resources.

it turns out we can

Expresses a discovered or revealed possibility.

we are in a position to

Indicates that the circumstances allow for a particular action.

in reality, we can

Introduces a contrast between expectation and what is achievable.

we are equipped to

Highlights preparedness and resources available for an action.

FAQs

What does "we can actually" mean?

The phrase "we can actually" emphasizes the possibility or capability of doing something, often highlighting that it might be surprising or unexpected. It suggests that something is not just theoretically possible, but realistically achievable.

How can I use "we can actually" in a sentence?

Use "we can actually" to introduce a capability or possibility that might not be immediately obvious or expected. For example, "After reviewing the data, "we can actually conclude" that our initial hypothesis was correct."

What can I say instead of "we can actually"?

You can use alternatives like "we are able to", "we can indeed", or "it is possible for us to" depending on the context and the level of formality you wish to convey.

Is "we can actually" formal or informal?

"We can actually" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, alternatives like "we are able to" might be preferred.