we can only

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can only" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a limitation or constraint regarding what is possible or permissible in a given situation. Example: "Given the current circumstances, we can only proceed with the project if we receive additional funding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can only agree.

Independent

We can only hope.

The New York Times

We can only guess.

The New York Times - Books

"We can only gain.

The New York Times

But we can only imagine.

The Guardian

We can only forge ahead.

The New Yorker

We can only go forward".

The New York Times - Books

We can only build up".

The New York Times

We Can Only Hope.

The Washington Post

We can only speculate.

The Guardian - Film

We can only wonder.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we can only", ensure that the limitation or constraint is clear to the reader. Specify what is not possible alongside what is.

Common error

Avoid using "we can only" when there are actually multiple options available. This can undermine your credibility and create confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can only" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a limitation, restriction, or constraint on possible actions or outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct way to indicate what is permissible or feasible in a given situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

15%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can only" serves to express a limitation or constraint, indicating the boundaries of possibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse communication settings. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about the restriction you're conveying and avoid overstating limitations where options exist. Alternatives such as "we are limited to" or "all we can do is" offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

all we can do is

Highlights the action possible, implicitly acknowledging limitations.

the only thing we can do is

Stresses the singularity of the action that remains possible.

we are limited to

Emphasizes restriction imposed upon us, less about our capability.

we are restricted to

Highlights the constraints placed on our actions, similar to 'limited'.

we are only able to

Focuses on the ability to perform an action, but with constraints.

our sole option is

Indicates a single, exclusive course of action available.

we have no choice but to

Emphasizes the lack of alternatives, focusing on necessity.

we must simply

Emphasizes the necessity of a single, straightforward action.

it is only possible for us to

Formal way to express a restricted possibility.

we can but

Archaic but emphatic way of expressing limited action.

FAQs

How to use "we can only" in a sentence?

The phrase "we can only" is used to express a restriction or limitation on what is possible. For example, "Given the resources, "we can only" complete a portion of the project this quarter."

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

You can use alternatives like "we are limited to", "we are restricted to", or "all we can do is depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "we can only" or "we only can"?

"We can only" is the grammatically correct and more common construction. "We only can" is less standard and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "we can only" and "we can also"?

"We can only" indicates a limitation, suggesting that there are no other options. Conversely, "we can also" implies the addition of another option or possibility.