"This idea can work" vs "This idea may work"

Question

"This idea can work" vs "This idea may work"

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey a similar meaning but with a slight difference in certainty. 'This idea can work' implies a higher level of certainty compared to 'this idea may work,' which suggests a possibility but not a guarantee.

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

This phrase is used to express a strong belief or confidence that the idea has the potential to succeed.

Examples:

With the right resources, this idea can work.
I believe this idea can work if we implement it properly.

Alternatives:

this idea has the potential to work
this idea is feasible
this idea is viable

This phrase is used to express a level of uncertainty about the success of the idea.

Examples:

This idea may work, but we need to assess the risks involved.
I think this idea may work if we get more feedback from users.

Alternatives:

this idea might work
this idea could work
this idea is a possibility

Answer 1

This idea can work

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It implies a higher level of certainty.

Answer 2

This idea may work

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It suggests a possibility but not a guarantee.

"This idea can work" vs "This idea may work"

This idea can work

This idea may work

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