we could manage

USAGE SUMMARY

"we could manage" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is achievable or possible. For example, "We could manage to complete the project by the end of the month if we work together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We assumed we could manage.

The New York Times

Still, Charly decided we could manage on our own.

The New York Times - Travel

If we could manage thirty-five, then we can manage forty billion.

The New Yorker

We could manage the deficit down, without destroying the social fabric".

The Guardian

We thought we could manage it because we agreed on everything.

The Guardian

About all we could manage for dessert was the homemade raisin and walnut ice cream.

The New York Times - Travel

"A year from now, I'll bet we could manage a hundred clients," he told me.

The New Yorker

She thought we could manage the river side and avoid both the gate and the lock.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It was the best proxy we could manage," said Stroud, 48, who hatched the idea of their odyssey.

The New York Times - Sports

All we could manage for dessert was fresh fruit -- slices of creamy cherimoya, cleansing pineapple and orange.

The New York Times - Travel

Although there might be a legal argument to say we could manage advertising to ensure it doesn't cross national borders".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "we could manage" with a specific condition to clarify the context and demonstrate an understanding of potential limitations, for example: "We could manage the project if we get additional funding."

Common error

Avoid using "we could manage" when a higher degree of certainty is required. Opt for phrases like "we will manage" or "we are certain to manage" when you have a stronger conviction about the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we could manage" functions as a modal construction expressing possibility or capability. It suggests that the subject (we) possesses the ability to handle or deal with a situation, task, or resource, although not with absolute certainty. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples of usage in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we could manage" is a versatile expression used to indicate a tentative ability or possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. While it conveys a sense of capability, it also acknowledges potential limitations. When writing, use "we could manage" to propose solutions or express confidence while recognizing conditions or uncertainties. Be mindful not to overstate certainty and consider stronger alternatives when a more definitive stance is needed. The phrase sees widespread use across various reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can deal with

A straightforward expression of being able to handle a situation.

we can take care of

Implies responsibility and the ability to oversee and manage.

we are capable of handling

Emphasizes the capability and skill to deal with something.

we are able to cope with

Focuses on the ability to deal with difficulties or challenges.

we have the capacity to

Highlights the inherent ability or potential to do something.

we can oversee

Focuses on the ability to supervise and direct an activity.

we are equipped to handle

Indicates preparedness and the necessary resources to manage something.

we can administer

Emphasizes the ability to manage or supervise the execution or conduct of.

we are in a position to manage

Highlights the favorable circumstances that allow management.

we are equal to

Conveys that one is able to deal with something challenging.

FAQs

How can I use "we could manage" in a sentence?

You can use "we could manage" to express a tentative ability or possibility, especially when discussing future plans or potential solutions. For example, "We think "we could manage" the workload with a few adjustments to our schedule."

What are some alternatives to "we could manage"?

Alternatives to "we could manage" include "we can handle", "we are able to cope with", or "we have the capacity to", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "we could manage" and "we can manage"?

"We could manage" implies a possibility or a conditional ability, whereas "we can manage" expresses a more definitive capability. The former suggests a degree of uncertainty or reliance on external factors, while the latter conveys more confidence.

Is it appropriate to use "we could manage" in formal writing?

Yes, "we could manage" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when expressing a tentative plan or a conditional ability. However, consider the level of certainty you want to convey and choose more assertive language if appropriate.