we can cite

USAGE SUMMARY

"we can cite" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is often used when discussing sources or evidence in academic or professional writing. Here are two examples of how it could be used: 1. "To support our argument, we can cite several studies that have shown similar results." 2. "In order to avoid plagiarism, we must always cite our sources when using external information in our writing."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Now we can cite the homeowner, who then has to prove that they're not illegal".

The New York Times

For example, we can cite initiatives to open data (Data.gov) and reports from public' agencies.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

For every prodigy doomed to misery by early success, we can cite another who started off strong and kept going.

The New Yorker

Of course, survival value is hardly the only sort of "practical reason" we can cite on their behalf.

The New York Times

"We can cite thousands of success stories that include Sul Ross faculty, Sul Ross experiences and Sul Ross diplomas as stepping stones".

The New York Times

In the latter case, we can cite the fortress of Sacsayhuaman (15th Century) or many castles or temples in Japan such as Mastuyama castle (17th Century) where ashlar masonry proved able to resist high-intensity earthquakes.

Dry Stone Retaining Structures DEM Modeling

As an example, we can cite petition platforms (like Avaaz.org), but also some cases of citizen journalism and online activism that looks for attention and actions from state agencies.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We can cite the introduction of word spaces in seventh-century Ireland, and punctuation throughout medieval Europe – then comes standardised spelling with the arrival of printing, and finally the education reforms of the early 1900s, which meant the British Expeditionary Force of 1914 was probably the first universally literate army to take to the field.

The Guardian - Books

Jane Campion's latest project is part of a now-honourable tradition of film-making that is a bridge between features and high-end TV: we can cite Olivier Assayas Carloss, the Red Riding trilogy, and indeed Campion's own Angel at My Table.

The Guardian - Film

Empirically, we can cite lots of them.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

As an example, we can cite the acquisition of new relations for the concept "glass".

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can cite" to introduce evidence or examples that support your claims, ensuring each citation is relevant and adds value to your argument.

Common error

While useful, overuse of "we can cite" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using phrases like "examples include" or "it is worth noting" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can cite" functions as an introductory phrase used to introduce evidence, examples, or sources that support a claim or argument. It signals the intention to provide specific references, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

35%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we can cite" is a versatile phrase used to introduce supporting evidence in various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is grammatically correct and commonly employed in academic, scientific, and journalistic writing. While highly effective, it's important to vary your language and avoid overuse. Consider using alternatives like "examples include" or "it is worth noting" to maintain reader engagement. According to Ludwig, "we can cite" is most frequently found in scientific and news media publications, reflecting its role in evidence-based communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we could mention

Suggests a less formal or exhaustive listing of examples compared to a direct citation.

we are able to reference

Highlights the capability or permission to use a specific source as evidence.

we might reference

Indicates a possibility of referring to something, rather than a definitive citation.

one might point to

Uses a more impersonal tone, suitable for academic or formal contexts.

we have the ability to mention

Highlights a speaker's capability to cite something.

it is worth noting

Emphasizes the importance or relevance of the example or information being presented.

we may allude to

Suggests a less direct reference, implying a subtle or indirect connection.

examples include

Directly introduces a list of examples without explicitly stating the act of citing.

to give an instance

Offers a clear and concise way to introduce a single, specific example.

we can bring up

Indicates introducing a topic or example into a discussion or argument.

FAQs

How do I use "we can cite" effectively in a sentence?

Use "we can cite" to introduce specific examples, research findings, or expert opinions that support your argument. For instance, "To illustrate this point, "we can cite" a recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine."

What are some alternatives to "we can cite" that I can use in my writing?

You can use alternatives like "examples include", "it is worth noting", or "we could mention" to add variety to your writing while maintaining a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "we can cite" in formal writing?

Yes, "we can cite" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic and professional contexts where providing evidence is crucial. It clearly indicates that you are offering supporting information from a reliable source.

When should I avoid using "we can cite"?

Avoid using "we can cite" in informal contexts or when the evidence is weak or irrelevant. In such cases, consider using less assertive phrases or omitting the citation altogether.