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can only vs only can

Both "can only" and "only can" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Can only" is used to express a limitation or restriction, while "only can" is used to emphasize that something can be done in a particular way or under specific circumstances.

Last updated: March 26, 2024 • 1815 views

can only

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express a limitation or restriction.

Use "can only" to indicate that something is possible or allowed only in a specific way or under certain conditions.

Examples:

I can only imagine how difficult it must be for you.
You can only enter the building with a valid ID.
She can only speak a few words of French.
We can only hope for the best.
They can only afford to buy one ticket.

Show examples from the web [+]

I can only surmise molecular trans-placement.
No, they can only be hidden.
...it can only be limited.
This approach can only backfire on them.
We can only deplore police passivity and ineffectiveness.
As media, we can only report the facts.
Greater legal certainty can only be beneficial.
I can only attribute it to Cortexiphan.
Fuel and catalyst can only be added manually.
So I can only drink at work.
Sorry, non-members can only sample the specialty flavors.
Dosage selector can only be turned in one direction.
Certain specific support can only be provided at Union level.
Disappointment can only exist upon expectation.
Electricity can only reach EU citizens through the network.
Parliament can only welcome these improvements.
Master, I can only pay $2...
- I can only tell you.
I can only confirm what Mr White said.
On this point the Commission can only restate its position.

Alternatives:

can just
can simply
can merely
can solely
can exclusively

only can

This phrase is correct and used to emphasize that something can be done in a particular way or under specific circumstances.

Use "only can" to stress that the action or possibility is limited to a specific manner or condition.

Examples:

Only then can you truly understand the complexity of the situation.
Only in this way can we achieve our goals.
Only by working together can we solve this problem.
Only with your help can we make this project successful.
Only through practice can you improve your skills.

Show examples from the web [+]

Not only can we think, we must.
Not only can we prove Jerry Tyson is alive, but we have him in custody.
Not only can I, I have to.
Not only can I see what's on Pearl's computer, but he's got all his project files for Aster Corps.
Look, not only can you stand up for Alice, you can stand up for yourself.
So as you can see, not only can you store your favorite equations, but you can forward them to your friends or post them on Facebook right from the app.
Not only can I do I shall do it with great pleasure.
That not only can they get the best care here, But also the most up-to-date.
Not only can I give you your career back, I can make you an ATF legend.
And if we can change the lens, not only can we change your happiness, we can change every single educational and business outcome at the same time.
We only can give out information to immediate family.
I only can cure my family with my love.
In this way only can France recover the moral and cultural leadership of Europe.
Whether an obligation to accept voluntary donation only can be justified in terms of increased safety seems questionable.
It only can replicate if it uses parts that it hijacks from a cell.
I have a big problem and only can you help me.
Not only can scientists talk sensibly, they've also formulated theories about what happens down there.
Not only can you say how many notes, it's being able to play them all at the same time. Here we are.
We've had economic analysis pointing out that, not only can we afford it, it's cheaper to act early.
Not only can media education be offered within the school system, but it can also be encompassed within lifelong learning.

Alternatives:

can only
can just
can simply
can merely
can solely

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