we could extend that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we could extend that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting the possibility of expanding or elaborating on a particular idea or topic. Example: "If we find that the current project is successful, we could extend that to include additional features in the next phase."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"And I hope that we could extend that precedent" into the future, he added.

The New York Times

It is thus a day where these differences seem to disappear (would that we could extend that feeling somehow).

Huffington Post

The results using the fixed and sorted cells (Figure 2) suggested that we could extend that approach to analyze the association of c-Myb with target genes in ChIP assays.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"So we wanted to make sure they ended up with someone who could extend that legacy of community".

The New York Times - Arts

A lengthy court battle could extend that time frame.

The Guardian

Although many colleges have tentacles firmly planted abroad, the influx of foreign-born presidents could extend that reach.

The New York Times

Mr. Anestis said Epik could go public in as few as six months, but acknowledged that market volatility could extend that timetable.

The New York Times

"You could extend that argument, and say no works of art belong in Arkansas, and that is an absurd thing to say".

The New Yorker

An executive at 20th Century Fox, which released "Master and Commander," said that any awards nominations could extend that movie's popularity.

The New York Times

Italy are not exactly try machines and it is reasonable to assume Andy Farrell's defensive curtain could extend that run to four in Rome on Saturday.

The Guardian - Sport

But the E.U. transport commissioner, Siim Kallas, also suggested that the commission could extend that deadline beyond 2011 if there were real signs of progress in related areas, like ship design.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we could extend that", ensure the context clearly defines what "that" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The budget is limited, but we could extend that", specify "We could extend the budget by reallocating resources."

Common error

Avoid using "we could extend that" without a clear antecedent for "that". Ensure your audience understands what you are referring to; otherwise, the statement becomes meaningless. Instead of "We implemented a new policy, and we could extend that", try "We implemented a new policy, and "we could extend this policy to other departments"".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we could extend that" functions as a suggestion or conditional statement, indicating a potential action or expansion based on current circumstances. As supported by Ludwig, it indicates the possibility of taking an action.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we could extend that" is a grammatically sound phrase used to suggest the possibility of expanding or prolonging something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's often deployed in neutral contexts such as news and media or science, where offering potential options is common. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating what "that" refers to. Alternatives like "we could broaden that" or "we might expand upon that" can add nuance depending on the intended meaning. The key to effective communication lies in avoiding ambiguity and ensuring the suggestion is easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we could broaden that

This alternative suggests making something wider in scope or application.

we might expand upon that

This option implies developing something further with more detail.

we can prolong that

This suggests extending the duration of something.

we might amplify that

This alternative means to increase the intensity or impact of something.

we should augment that

This suggests adding something to improve or enhance it.

we may amplify that

It implies the possibility of increasing the intensity of something.

we should develop that further

This suggests expanding something in a more detailed and structured way.

we can build upon that

This implies using something as a foundation to create something larger or more complex.

we could elaborate on that

This refers to providing more details or explanations about something.

we could continue from there

This alternative implies progressing onward from a specific point or idea.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we could extend that" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "we might expand upon that", "we could further develop that", or "we could broaden that scope" depending on the specific context.

What does "we could extend that" typically mean in a project management context?

In project management, "we could extend that" often refers to the possibility of prolonging a deadline, increasing a budget, or expanding the scope of work. For instance, "If we secure additional funding, "we could extend the project timeline"".

Is it grammatically correct to say "we could extend on that"?

While understandable, "we could extend on that" is less common and slightly awkward. It's generally better to use "we could extend that" or "we could expand on that" for clearer communication.

What's the difference between "we could extend that" and "we should extend that"?

"We could extend that" suggests a possibility or option, whereas "we should extend that" implies a recommendation or obligation. The former leaves room for discussion, while the latter expresses a stronger conviction.