we can so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can so" is not standard in written English and may be considered informal or incorrect in many contexts.
It can be used in casual conversation or informal writing to emphasize agreement or capability, often in response to a negative assertion. Example: "I know you think we can't finish this project on time, but we can so do it if we work together!"

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We can, so we may," he said.

The New York Times

"We're cutting where we can so that we can invest where we must".

The New York Times

"We're trying to do whatever we can so that it's a level playing field".

The New York Times

"We will do what we can so that there will be order in Syria," he said.

The New York Times

That we can so readily distort what happened in the past has far-ranging implications.

The New York Times

And if we can, so many others can do the same.

The New York Times

"He can't actually do anything more than we can, so he has credibility".

The Guardian - Arts

It can't be jettisoned simply because we can so easily communicate across borders.

The Guardian

"The Labour vision is we all chip in when we can so that nobody falls behind".

The Guardian

We are doing all we can so they can play: sometimes we succeed, sometimes not.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Right now, we're just focused on growing as fast as we can [so] we'll have lots of options.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If you want to use "we can so" in formal texts, make sure to replace it with phrases such as "we are capable of" or "we certainly can".

Common error

Avoid using "we can so" in academic papers or business reports. Instead, opt for phrases like "we are capable of" or "we certainly can" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can so" serves as an emphatic affirmation of capability or agreement, often used to directly counter a previous statement. Ludwig shows it's often used in responses or assertions of ability. While not formally correct, the phrase injects emphasis into informal speech.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "we can so" is used to express agreement or confidence, it's most appropriate in informal settings. As Ludwig AI highlights, it may not always align with formal grammar rules, but it serves to emphasize or reinforce a statement of capability. When writing formally, consider alternatives such as "we certainly can" or "we are capable of" to maintain a professional tone. Remember to consider your audience and the context when choosing the most appropriate phrase. The phrase appears to be common in "News & Media".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we certainly can

Adds emphasis to the affirmation, providing a stronger confirmation.

we absolutely can

Similar to 'we certainly can', this phrase reinforces the possibility with conviction.

we are able to

A more standard and formal expression of ability.

we are capable of

Emphasizes ability or capacity, shifting from assertion to a statement of competence.

we have the ability to

Focuses on the possession of a particular skill or resource necessary for action.

it is within our capabilities

Highlights the inherent capacity or resources available.

we are equipped to

Implies readiness and preparation, suggesting availability of necessary equipment or knowledge.

we are in a position to

Highlights favorable circumstances allowing a specific action.

we are permitted to

Indicates that there is no obstacle or restriction preventing an action.

we are authorized to

Implies official approval or sanction for a given activity.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "we can so"?

The phrase "we can so" is most appropriate in informal contexts or to add emphasis in spoken language. It's often used to contradict a negative statement with assurance. In formal writing, it's better to use alternatives like "we certainly can" or "we absolutely can".

What are some alternatives to "we can so" that are suitable for formal writing?

In formal writing, replace "we can so" with phrases such as "we are capable of", "we are able to", or "it is within our capabilities". These options maintain a professional and clear tone.

Is "we can so" grammatically correct?

While "we can so" is used in spoken English to emphasize capability or agreement, it's not considered standard grammatical English. It may be seen as informal or incorrect in many writing contexts. Ludwig AI suggests alternatives if you're looking for more formal options.

How does the context influence the choice between "we can so" and its alternatives?

Context is crucial. If you're in a casual conversation or aiming for emphasis, "we can so" might work. However, for professional or academic settings, choose alternatives like "we certainly can" or expressing confidence in completing tasks in a timely manner is preferable.