we cannot determine whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we cannot determine whether" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or indecision about a particular situation or outcome. Example: "After reviewing the data, we cannot determine whether the new strategy will be effective in increasing sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We cannot determine whether or not a movie will be played in movie theaters," said Lynton.

The Guardian - Film

We cannot determine whether or not a movie will be played in movie theatres".

Independent

Nonetheless, the court said these recollections were so spotty and vague that "we cannot determine whether Cannon slept during a 'critical stage' of Burdine's trial".

The New York Times

The opinion said: "In sum, on this record, we cannot determine whether Cannon slept during a 'critical stage' of Burdine's trial".

The New York Times

However, we cannot determine whether the mutation accumulation is due to a steady (basal) proliferation or due to a few bursts occurring occasionally over decades.

Nature

To sum up, we cannot determine whether we have the existence of the positive solution.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Due to the absence of hydrogen in many structures we cannot determine whether bond efficiency is satisfied or not.

Journal of Cheminformatics

In the case of largely-estimated MDR, we cannot determine whether the asperity area is moderate, or almost complete locking.

Earth, Planets and Space

However, using this comparison, we cannot determine whether fluid intake fully or partially restored performance to euhydrated levels.

Sports Medicine - Open

For this reason, we cannot determine whether our findings could be extrapolated to a non-selected patient population or to other malignancies.

EJNMMI Research

Therefore, we cannot determine whether our resulting increased grades or retention are due to increased time with the students or some other factor.

International Journal of STEM Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we cannot determine whether", ensure that the reason for the uncertainty is clear to the reader. Provide context or factors contributing to the lack of determination.

Common error

Avoid using "we cannot determine whether" as a filler phrase. Always ensure there's a genuine reason for the indeterminacy, and that this reason is either explicitly stated or easily inferred from the surrounding context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we cannot determine whether" functions as an epistemic hedge, indicating a limitation in knowledge or the ability to ascertain a specific fact. It signals uncertainty and is used to present findings or conclusions with caution, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

72%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we cannot determine whether" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing uncertainty or an inability to ascertain a specific outcome. As noted by Ludwig AI, its usage spans diverse fields, with a strong emphasis on scientific and academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context for the uncertainty. Consider using alternative phrases like "it is not clear whether" or "we are unable to ascertain if" for variety. Avoid using the phrase as filler and always provide a rationale for the uncertainty. By understanding the phrase's function, purpose, and appropriate contexts, you can effectively convey uncertainty in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we cannot conclude whether

Focuses on the inability to reach a definitive conclusion.

we are unable to ascertain if

Replaces "cannot determine" with "unable to ascertain", offering a more formal tone.

it is not clear whether

Indicates a lack of clarity or certainty regarding a particular situation.

it is impossible for us to know if

Emphasizes the impossibility of knowing something, adding a stronger sense of uncertainty.

we lack the ability to discern whether

Highlights the lack of ability to discern, focusing on the capacity for understanding.

the evidence does not allow us to say if

Highlights that the available evidence is insufficient to make a determination.

we are not in a position to judge if

Indicates a lack of authority or sufficient information to make a judgment.

the answer remains elusive as to whether

Suggests that the answer is difficult to find or understand, adding a sense of mystery.

it's difficult to say whether

Uses a more informal tone to convey the difficulty in making a determination.

we are still in the dark about whether

Implies a state of ignorance or lack of information, using an idiomatic expression.

FAQs

How can I use "we cannot determine whether" in a sentence?

Use "we cannot determine whether" to express uncertainty or the inability to ascertain something due to lack of information or evidence. For example, "After analyzing the data, "we cannot determine whether" the new policy is effective."

What are some alternatives to "we cannot determine whether"?

You can use alternatives like "it is not clear whether", "we are unable to ascertain if", or "we cannot conclude whether depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we cannot determine whether"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is widely used in academic, scientific, and professional writing to express uncertainty or the inability to reach a conclusion based on available information.

When is it appropriate to use "we cannot determine whether" in writing?

Use "we cannot determine whether" when you genuinely lack the ability to ascertain something. Make sure to contextualize why the determination is not possible to maintain clarity and credibility.