we can become

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can become" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express potential or possibility regarding a change in state or identity. Example: "With dedication and hard work, we can become leaders in our field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We can become more active.

The Guardian

"We can become locally extinct," Deméré said.

The New Yorker

We can become psychologically less open to change.

The Guardian

"We believe we can become America's best storytellers".

The New York Times

This is more the team we think we can become".

The New York Times - Sports

We can become prisoners to it if we don't.

The New York Times

As Brailsford concedes: "We can become a more complete team".

The Guardian - Sport

"We can become totally shameless," Mr. Rudnick said.

The New York Times

"Of course we can become a big rice exporter".

The New York Times

We can become the gateway for both sides to meet.

The Economist

"I am confident that we can become a vocational institution of world class repute.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can become" to express a potential future state that is achievable through effort or circumstance. It's suitable for motivational contexts or strategic planning discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "we can become" when the outcome is highly uncertain or depends on factors outside of your control. Opt for phrases like "we might become" or "we could become" to reflect a more realistic level of probability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can become" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing possibility or potential. It indicates the ability or capacity to transform into something different. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we can become" is a versatile tool for expressing potential and possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media. While highly versatile, it's important to use "we can become" judiciously, considering the level of certainty and the context. Opt for alternatives like "we might become" or "we could become" when the outcome is less assured. By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use "we can become" to inspire, motivate, and articulate future goals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we might become

Replaces 'can' with 'might', suggesting a lower probability or a more speculative possibility.

we could become

Substitutes 'can' with 'could', indicating possibility or a conditional outcome.

we may become

Replaces 'can' with 'may', implying a possibility that is less certain than 'can'.

we have the potential to become

Expands the phrase to explicitly state the existence of potential.

we are able to become

Replaces 'can' with 'are able', emphasizing the capability to transform.

we stand to become

Highlights the likelihood or prospect of becoming something, often due to current circumstances.

we aspire to become

Shifts the focus to aspiration and ambition, implying a desired future state.

we aim to become

Implies a goal or objective to be achieved.

we are in a position to become

Emphasizes the current advantageous situation that enables future transformation.

we are likely to become

Indicates a high probability based on current trends or factors.

FAQs

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

Use "we can become" to suggest a transformation or achievement that is within reach. For example, "If we invest in renewable energy, "we can become" a leader in sustainability."

What phrases are similar to "we can become"?

Similar phrases include "we might become", "we could become", or "we have the potential to become". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey regarding possibility and certainty.

Is it correct to use "we can become" in formal writing?

Yes, "we can become" is appropriate for formal writing. It clearly and concisely expresses potential and is widely used in various professional contexts.

What's the difference between "we can become" and "we will become"?

"We can become" expresses a possibility that requires effort or specific conditions, while "we will become" suggests a future state that is more certain. For example, "If we work hard, "we can become" a successful team" implies effort, whereas "we will become a global company" suggests a predetermined outcome.