"can be a useful sign for" vs "This can be a useful sign for"

Question

"can be a useful sign for" vs "This can be a useful sign for"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. The first phrase 'this can be a useful sign for' is used when referring to a specific situation or object, while the second phrase 'can be a useful sign for' is more general and can be used in various contexts.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

This phrase is used when you want to indicate that something has the potential to be a useful sign without specifying a particular situation or object.

Examples:

His behavior can be a useful sign for his feelings.
The change in color can be a useful sign for the ripeness of the fruit.

Alternatives:

His behavior could indicate his feelings.
The change in color might signal the ripeness of the fruit.

This phrase is used when you want to specify a particular situation or object that can serve as a useful sign for something else.

Examples:

This behavior can be a useful sign for his true intentions.
The sudden drop in temperature can be a useful sign for an incoming storm.

Alternatives:

This behavior may indicate his true intentions.
The sudden drop in temperature could signal an incoming storm.

Answer 1

can be a useful sign for

This phrase is correct and commonly used in a more general context.

Answer 2

This can be a useful sign for

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a specific situation or object.

"can be a useful sign for" vs "This can be a useful sign for"

can be a useful sign for

This can be a useful sign for

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