Which one is correct?
"It could only be" or "One that could only be"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"It could only be" or "One that could only be"?

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This phrase is used to express that there is a single or exclusive option or possibility in a given context.

Examples:

Given the circumstances, it could only be a mistake.
With his skills, it could only be a matter of time before he succeeded.

Alternatives:

there was only one possibility
there was only one option
there was no other possibility
there was no other option
it was the only possibility

This phrase is used to emphasize the uniqueness or exclusivity of something or someone. It implies that there is no other possibility or option.

Examples:

She was the one that could only be the winner of the competition.
The painting was one that could only be the work of a master artist.

Alternatives:

the only one that could be
the one that could not be anything else
the one and only that could be
the one that was unmistakably
the unmistakable one

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'One that could only be' is used when referring to a specific thing or person that has unique characteristics or qualities. 'It could only be' is used when talking about a general situation or possibility that is limited or restricted.

Last Updated: March 06, 2024