"can be from" vs "could be from"

Question

"can be from" vs "could be from"

Both 'can be from' and 'could be from' are correct phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Can be from' is used to express a general possibility or ability, while 'could be from' is used to indicate a more tentative or polite suggestion. The choice between them depends on the level of certainty or formality you want to convey.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Use 'can be from' when you want to indicate that something has the potential to originate from a particular source or place.

Examples:

The mysterious package can be from my aunt in Australia.
The strange smell in the kitchen can be from the garbage disposal.
The error in the report can be from a data entry mistake.
The beautiful painting can be from the Renaissance period.
The inspiration for her novel can be from her travels around the world.

Alternatives:

may be from
might be from
could be from

Use 'could be from' when you want to propose a potential source or origin in a more uncertain or polite way.

Examples:

The strange noise in the attic could be from a loose board.
The delay in the delivery could be from the bad weather.
The error in the calculation could be from a software glitch.
The painting on the wall could be from the previous owners.
The idea for the new product could be from customer feedback.

Alternatives:

might be from
may be from
can be from

Answer 1

can be from

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express a general possibility or ability.

Answer 2

could be from

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to suggest a possibility in a more tentative or polite manner.

"can be from" vs "could be from"

can be from

could be from

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