we can only do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can only do" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing limitations on what actions or tasks can be accomplished. Example: "Given the current resources, we can only do what is necessary to meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We can only do so much.

The New York Times - Sports

We can only do damage to them.

The Guardian - Sport

But we can only do so much.

The New Yorker

"We can only do what we can to stop this.

The Guardian - Sport

We can only do that if we resolve these distractions.

The Guardian

We can only do that with diverse perspectives".

The Guardian

"We can only do what they let us do".

The New Yorker

"We can only do what we can control".

The New York Times - Sports

We can only do it by working together.

The Guardian

We can only do so much over the phone, however.

The Guardian - Opinion

In politics, we can only do what is possible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can only do" to set realistic expectations or acknowledge limitations when outlining plans or actions. This can help manage perceptions and avoid over-promising.

Common error

Avoid using "we can only do" when you actually have more options available. Ensure that the limitation is genuine and accurately reflects the situation; otherwise, it can undermine trust and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can only do" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing a limitation or constraint on possible actions. It indicates that the options available are restricted, as evidenced by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Sport

14%

Opinion

7%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we can only do" is a common and grammatically correct modal verb phrase used to express limitations or constraints on actions. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's widely used in various contexts, especially in news and media, emphasizing the setting of realistic expectations. While versatile, it's important to ensure its use accurately reflects genuine limitations to maintain credibility. Alternatives like "all we can do is" or "we are limited to" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

all we can do is

Focuses on the action as the sole possibility.

the most we can do is

Highlights the action as the maximum effort achievable.

we are limited to

Directly states a restriction on available actions.

we are only able to do

Emphasizes capability as the limiting factor.

it's all we can do

Expresses the action as a necessary or unavoidable choice.

that's all we can do

Highlights the action as the singular option available.

we have no choice but to

Indicates a lack of alternatives beyond the stated action.

our only option is to

Presents the action as the sole viable solution.

we can but do

An archaic form expressing the only available action.

we are constrained to

Highlights external factors restricting the options.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we can only do" is used to express limitations or restrictions on actions. For example, "Given the limited resources, we can only do what is absolutely necessary." It sets expectations and acknowledges boundaries.

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

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

Is it correct to say "we only can do" instead of "we can only do"?

No, the correct word order is "we can only do". The placement of "only" before the auxiliary verb "can" is grammatically incorrect in this context. "We can only do" is the standard and accepted form.

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

"We can only do" expresses a limitation on available options, whereas "we must do" expresses an obligation or necessity. "We can only do what is possible" acknowledges constraints, while "We must do our best" indicates a required action.