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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
It could be that
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "It could be that" is correct and usable in written English
You can use this phrase when you are making a suggestion or when you are speculating about the possibility of something being true. For example, "It could be that he was too nervous to give a good performance."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
It could be that bad.
News & Media
It could be that.' " It was.
News & Media
It could be that fashion makes sexy TV.
News & Media
It could be that muscles are starved for blood.
News & Media
It could be that periwinkle shirt, my favorite.
News & Media
It could be that subtle difference that connects with someone".
News & Media
It could be that Erdoğan is just a loyal friend.
News & Media
It could be that way for a long time.
News & Media
It could be that Mason has a strong legal case.
News & Media
It could be that technological change is just as important.
News & Media
It could be that company management was afraid to fail.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
Use "It could be that" to introduce a speculative explanation or possibility when you are not entirely certain of the facts. This adds nuance to your writing and acknowledges uncertainty.
⚠ Common error
Avoid using "It could be that" when you are stating a known fact or a highly probable event. Overusing it diminishes the impact of genuine speculations.
Linguistic Context
The primary grammatical function of "It could be that" is to introduce a subordinate clause expressing a possibility or a hypothetical situation. Ludwig AI confirms this, providing numerous examples where the phrase introduces a potential explanation or reason.
Expression frequency: Very common
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
66%
Science
15%
Wiki
8%
⚠ Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "It could be that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a possibility or speculative explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase serves to present ideas without asserting them as definitive facts, adding a layer of nuance and uncertainty. While adaptable to both formal and informal settings, it's best used when expressing genuine speculation rather than stating known facts. Consider alternatives like "It is possible that" or "Perhaps" for nuanced expression.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
It's possible that
Focuses on the possibility of something being true.
It may be the case that
Formal way of expressing a possibility or hypothetical situation.
Perhaps it is that
Emphasizes the uncertainty or speculation involved.
It is conceivable that
Highlights that something is within the realm of possibility, though not necessarily probable.
The possibility exists that
Formal way of introducing a potential explanation or outcome.
It is thinkable that
Suggests something can be considered as a possibility.
More alternative expressions(6)
FAQs
How can I use "It could be that" in a sentence?
Use "It could be that" to introduce a possibility or a speculative explanation. For example, "It could be that the store is closed due to the holiday".
What are some alternatives to "It could be that"?
Alternatives include phrases like "It is possible that", "Perhaps", or "Maybe", depending on the level of formality and certainty you wish to convey.
Is "It could be that" formal or informal?
"It could be that" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "It is conceivable that" may be preferred in academic or professional settings.
What's the difference between "It could be that" and "It might be that"?
The difference between "It could be that" and "It might be that" is negligible. Both express possibility, but "It might be that" may suggest a slightly lower degree of certainty compared to "It could be that".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested