we could proceed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we could proceed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that you and the person/people you are communicating with can move on to the next step of a process, project, or plan. For example: "We've finished establishing the budget for our research project. We could proceed with selecting a research method."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

We decided that we could proceed".

The New Yorker

It's questionable how we could proceed in New York.

The New York Times

"The purpose of the advice was to make it clear we could proceed by law," the prime minister said.

The Guardian

"The way we've phased it, if the world got worse, we could proceed without losing our momentum.

The New York Times - Arts

I was a little unclear why that was so important until we got the signal that we could proceed.

The New York Times - Travel

With the addition of a simple and efficient line drawing algorithm this was taken care of and we could proceed to work on more complex features.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"We hope Mexico could proceed from the overall interest of joint response to the disease, fully understand the necessary measures we have taken, and handle the issue in an objective and calm manner," he said in a statement.

The New York Times

In order to investigate if the differentiation observed between the two populations could be compatible with complete isolation since the colonization of the islands, we simulated how this differentiation could proceed in the absence of gene flow using EASYPOP.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

We worked together at William Morris and we watched the ways that management could proceed.

Harvard Business Review

Consequently, the differences we found in the community acquisition rates could proceed from heterogeneity in serotype-specific prevalence in infants.

BMC Infectious Diseases

The Aborigines could proceed to court.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we could proceed" when suggesting a next step that is conditional on certain factors being met or agreed upon. It implies a possibility rather than a definite plan.

Common error

Avoid using "we could proceed" when a firm decision has already been made. Instead, opt for phrases like "we will proceed" or "we are proceeding" to reflect certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we could proceed" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing a suggestion or possibility for future action. Ludwig confirms this by showcasing examples where the phrase introduces a conditional next step or outlines a potential course of action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we could proceed" is a versatile phrase used to suggest a next step or a potential plan, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a modal verb phrase, inviting consideration rather than dictating action. While suitable for various contexts, it's particularly common in News & Media, Science, and Academia. When using this phrase, consider the level of certainty you wish to convey, and avoid substituting it for stronger directives when a firm decision has been made. Ludwig showcases many examples that further exemplify how to use it. Related alternatives include phrases such as "we might continue" or "we can advance", offering subtly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we might continue

Indicates a slightly lower degree of certainty or likelihood than "we could proceed".

we can advance

Focuses more on the forward movement aspect, implying progress is achievable.

we may go ahead

Similar in meaning, but suggests permission or approval to start or continue.

we should move forward

Expresses a stronger recommendation or obligation to continue.

we are able to continue

Highlights the ability or capacity to keep going.

we have the option to proceed

Emphasizes the availability of a choice to move forward.

we are in a position to advance

Highlights that the situation enables the advancement of project.

we have the green light

Idiomatic expression indicating permission to proceed.

we're clear to proceed

Highlights clarity and authorisation to move forward.

let's move on

More informal suggestion to change topic or start something new.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we could proceed" indicates a suggestion or possibility of moving forward. For example, "Now that we have the data, "we could proceed" with the analysis."

What is a more formal alternative to "we could proceed"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "we may continue", "we are able to proceed", or "it is possible to advance". These options maintain a professional tone.

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

"We could proceed" suggests a possibility or option, while "we should proceed" implies a recommendation or obligation. The latter indicates a stronger sense of advisability.

Are there any contexts where "we could proceed" might be inappropriate?

While generally versatile, "we could proceed" may be unsuitable when a definite action is already underway. In such cases, phrases like "we are proceeding" or "we have proceeded" are more accurate.