we can tell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can tell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is evident or noticeable to the speaker and possibly to others. Example: "From the way she smiles and interacts with everyone, we can tell that she is genuinely happy to be here."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not that we can tell.

The New York Times

"We can tell fairly easily".

The New York Times

And we can tell that.

Yale University

We can tell you whatever we want".

The New Yorker

"This way, we can tell the truth".

The New York Times

"Here we can tell it months before".

The Economist

Surely, we can tell the difference.

The New York Times

"We can tell from the title.

The New Yorker

Enough, we can tell them.

The New Yorker

We can tell things; not like priests. . . .

The New Yorker

As far as we can tell.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can tell" to express a conclusion based on evidence or observation, ensuring clarity and directness in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we can tell" without sufficient context or explanation. Always provide the basis for your conclusion to maintain credibility and clarity. For example, instead of saying "We can tell they are lying", specify what behaviors or evidence lead you to that conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can tell" functions as a declarative statement, expressing the speaker's ability to discern or understand something. It often introduces an explanation or conclusion based on observed evidence. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

16%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can tell" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating an ability to discern or understand something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to provide sufficient context to support your conclusions, avoiding vagueness. Found frequently in News & Media and Academic sources, "we can tell" serves to convey understanding, provide assurance, or state a conclusion based on evidence. Alternatives such as "we have observed" offer more formal options. Use "we can tell" effectively to enhance clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have observed

More formal than 'we have noticed', suggesting a careful or scientific observation.

we perceive

Emphasizes the sensory or intuitive understanding of something.

we are able to discern

Formal rephrasing that emphasizes the ability to distinguish something.

we comprehend

More formal than 'we understand', indicating a thorough understanding.

we have noticed

Emphasizes the act of observing something.

we recognize

Highlights the acknowledgement or identification of something.

it is apparent to us

Highlights the obviousness of something to the speakers.

it's clear to us

Emphasizes clarity and obviousness from the speaker's perspective.

we understand

Focuses on grasping the meaning or significance of something.

we are aware

Focuses on the state of being conscious or informed.

FAQs

What does "we can tell" mean?

The phrase "we can tell" means that something is apparent or noticeable to the speakers, based on observation or evidence. It indicates an ability to discern or understand something.

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

You can use "we can tell" to express a conclusion or observation. For example, "From her smile, "we can tell" she's happy", or "We can tell that the project is well-managed because of the clear organization and timely updates."

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

You can use alternatives like "it is apparent to us", "we are aware", or "we have noticed depending on the context.

Is "we can tell" formal or informal?

The phrase "we can tell" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "we have observed" might be preferable in highly formal settings.