"this can be a useful tool" vs "this may be a useful tool"

Question

"this can be a useful tool" vs "this may be a useful tool"

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey a similar meaning, but there is a slight difference in certainty. 'This can be a useful tool' implies a higher degree of certainty compared to 'this may be a useful tool,' which suggests a possibility or likelihood.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

This phrase is used to express the idea that something has the potential to be a useful tool.

Examples:

In certain situations, this can be a useful tool for solving complex problems.
Depending on your needs, this can be a useful tool for organizing your work.
This can be a useful tool for improving communication within the team.

Alternatives:

This could be a useful tool
This might be a useful tool
This is a useful tool
This has the potential to be a useful tool
This is likely a useful tool

This phrase is used to suggest a possibility or likelihood that something could be a useful tool.

Examples:

Depending on the situation, this may be a useful tool for achieving your goals.
In some cases, this may be a useful tool for enhancing productivity.
This new software may be a useful tool for streamlining processes.

Alternatives:

This might be a useful tool
This could be a useful tool
This is possibly a useful tool
This is potentially a useful tool
This has the potential to be a useful tool

Answer 1

this can be a useful tool

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

this may be a useful tool

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"this can be a useful tool" vs "this may be a useful tool"

this can be a useful tool

this may be a useful tool

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