C1 Expression Very Formal 9 min read

It can be concluded that

Academic essay writing expression

In 15 Seconds

  • Formal signal for a final logical result.
  • Used in academic essays and business reports.
  • Moves from personal opinion to objective fact.
  • Requires preceding evidence to be effective.

Meaning

This phrase serves as the ultimate logical seal on a set of arguments or data points. It signals to your audience that, based on the evidence provided, there is only one reasonable and unavoidable conclusion to be reached. It carries a vibe of objective authority and intellectual finality.

Key Examples

3 of 10
1

In a university research paper

Based on the survey results, it can be concluded that most students prefer hybrid learning.

Based on the survey results, it can be concluded that most students prefer hybrid learning.

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2

Analyzing a Netflix show's popularity on a blog

With millions of views in the first week, it can be concluded that the series is a global hit.

With millions of views in the first week, it can be concluded that the series is a global hit.

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3

A formal business meeting about sales

Following the 30% drop in revenue, it can be concluded that our current pricing strategy is failing.

Following the 30% drop in revenue, it can be concluded that our current pricing strategy is failing.

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🌍

Cultural Background

There is a strong emphasis on 'objectivity.' Using 'It can be concluded that' instead of 'I think' is a way to show that you are following the scientific method and not letting your emotions influence the results. While the Japanese equivalent is used in writing, in person, speakers might use more indirect language to avoid sounding too assertive or 'closing' the conversation too early without consensus. In law, this phrase is used to bridge the gap between 'fact' and 'verdict.' It is a linguistic tool that turns evidence into a final decision. British academic writing often favors 'One may conclude that' as an even more formal or slightly more 'polite' alternative to 'It can be concluded that.'

🎯

Use it for 'The Big Reveal'

Save this phrase for your most important point. If you use it for small things, it loses its power.

⚠️

Don't forget 'THAT'

Without 'that', the sentence will fall apart grammatically. Always check for it.

In 15 Seconds

  • Formal signal for a final logical result.
  • Used in academic essays and business reports.
  • Moves from personal opinion to objective fact.
  • Requires preceding evidence to be effective.

What It Means

Ever felt like you’ve built a perfect LEGO tower of facts and just need to put the final block on top? That is exactly what it can be concluded that does for your writing. It is not just a fancy way to say "the end"; it is a way to claim victory for your logic. When you use this phrase, you are telling the reader, "Look at all this proof I just gave you—now you have to agree with me!" It is the linguistic equivalent of a judge banging a gavel in a courtroom drama. It carries an emotional weight of certainty and intellectual rigor. You are moving away from personal opinion and stepping into the realm of shared, objective truth. It is like the final scene in a detective movie where all the clues finally point to one person, and there is no room left for doubt. You are essentially saying that the logic is so strong it practically speaks for itself. It is a powerful tool for anyone who wants their arguments to feel grounded and undeniable.

How To Use It

You usually place this phrase right at the beginning of your final summary sentence. Think of it as a gatekeeper for your big finish. You have presented your data, your observations, or your arguments, and now you are ready to deliver the punchline. It follows a passive structure, which makes it sound objective and impartial. Instead of saying "I think," you are saying "The facts themselves show us." It is like letting the evidence do the talking while you stand back and look smart. To use it correctly, you need to have a solid foundation of preceding information. You cannot just drop it out of nowhere! It functions as a bridge between your evidence and your final verdict. For example, if you have spent three paragraphs talking about how a new app saves time and money, you would start your final thought with it can be concluded that the app is a worthwhile investment. It creates a satisfying rhythm in your prose that guides the reader to the finish line. Just remember that it is a "heavy" phrase, so it needs a heavy topic to support it.

Formality & Register

This is definitely a "suit and tie" kind of phrase. You will not hear someone saying this while ordering a pizza or texting their best friend about a bad date—unless they are being incredibly sarcastic. It belongs in university essays, scientific journals, and high-stakes business reports. If your writing feels a bit too casual, throwing this in is like adding a professional filter to an Instagram photo. It instantly elevates the tone. It is used in what we call the "formal register," which is common in academic and professional English. It is a way to sound detached and professional, which is often required in serious research. Just do not use it at a house party, or people might think you have spent a few too many years in the library! Using it in the wrong setting can make you sound stiff or even a bit arrogant. However, in a job interview or a formal presentation, it is like wearing a crisp, ironed shirt—it shows you mean business and have thought your points through carefully.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine you are writing a deep-dive analysis on why a certain Netflix show went viral. After listing the acting, the soundtrack, and the social media hype, you would write: it can be concluded that the show's success was due to its relatable characters. Or maybe you are a tech reviewer on YouTube comparing two new smartphones. After twenty minutes of battery tests and camera comparisons, you conclude that the cheaper model is actually the better deal. Even in a Zoom meeting, when looking at a drop in quarterly sales, a manager might use it to sound more authoritative. You might see it in a news report about climate change: "Given the record temperatures, it can be concluded that urgent action is required." It is also very common in legal documents where a lawyer summarizes why their client is innocent. It even pops up in high-level gaming analysis, where a streamer might say, "After seeing the frame rate drops, it can be concluded that the latest patch is buggy." It is a phrase for people who have done their homework and want everyone to know it.

When To Use It

Use it when you want to sound like an expert. It is perfect for the final paragraph of an essay or the "Results" section of a lab report. When you have multiple pieces of evidence that all point in the same direction, this phrase ties them together with a neat little bow. It is also great for professional emails where you need to summarize a complex situation and propose a solution. If you want to move from "opinion" to "fact," this is your go-to tool. It is particularly useful when you are writing for an audience that values logic over emotion. If you are submitting a paper to a professor or a report to a CEO, this phrase signals that you are following the rules of professional communication. It is a signal of maturity in your writing. It shows you know how to synthesize information rather than just listing facts. Use it when the stakes are high and you need your conclusion to stick.

When NOT To Use It

Please, for the love of all that is holy, do not use this in a WhatsApp group chat. "It can be concluded that we are out of milk" is a bit much for a Sunday morning. Avoid it in casual conversations, romantic letters, or creative storytelling where you want to keep the tone light and personal. It can also feel repetitive if you use it more than once in a single short document. If you have not actually provided any evidence yet, using this phrase will make you sound arrogant rather than logical. It is also not great for brainstorming sessions where ideas are still messy and unformed. Using it too early can shut down conversation because it sounds so final. Also, avoid it if you are writing a very short, punchy social media post—it takes up too many characters and feels too "heavy" for a platform like X (Twitter). Keep it in your back pocket for the big moments, not the small talk.

Common Mistakes

One big mistake is forgetting the that at the end. ✗ It can be concluded this... → ✓ It can be concluded that this.... Another is trying to make it active when it should be passive. ✗ We can concluded that... (mixing up tenses) → ✓ It can be concluded that.... Some learners also try to use it to start a question. ✗ It can be concluded that why the sales fell? → ✓ It can be concluded that the sales fell because of X. You are giving an answer, not asking for one! Another mistake is using it without any supporting evidence. You cannot just start a conversation with it. It requires "premises" or facts that come before it. Also, be careful with the word "concluded." Some people confuse it with "included." ✗ It can be included that... is a very different and incorrect meaning. Finally, do not use it to express a wild guess. It is for logical certainties, not for your "gut feeling" about who will win the Super Bowl.

Common Variations

If you want to mix things up, you can try it is reasonable to conclude that or it follows that. These are like the first cousins of our main phrase. For something slightly less formal but still professional, therefore or consequently work wonders. In the UK, you might see one can conclude that, which adds an extra layer of "proper" British English. If you are writing a scientific paper, you might see the data suggests that, which is like a slightly more humble version of our phrase. If you want to be even more forceful, you can say it is inescapable that. For a more modern, tech-focused vibe, you might hear people say the takeaway is that. Each variation has a slightly different flavor. It follows that is very mathematical and logical. The data suggests that is cautious and scientific. It can be concluded that is the classic, reliable choice for any formal setting.

Real Conversations

P

Professor

After reviewing your data on urban growth, what is the final verdict for the board?
S

Student

Well, considering the lack of green space and the rise in noise levels, it can be concluded that the city planning was poorly managed.
P

Professor

Exactly. Your logic is sound, and the evidence supports that claim.
M

Manager

The click-through rate on the new Instagram ads is nearly zero after a week.

Marketing Lead: Given the negative feedback in the comments and the high bounce rate, it can be concluded that the campaign missed the target audience.

M

Manager

Let's pivot immediately then; we cannot afford to waste more budget.

Scientist A: The samples from the lake show a 20% increase in toxicity levels.

Scientist B: Based on the upstream factory runoff reports, it can be concluded that the local ecosystem is at risk.

Scientist A: We need to notify the environmental agency by this afternoon.

Quick FAQ

Is it too formal for a blog post? Usually, yes, unless it is a very serious or technical blog. If you are writing about your vacation, stick to "so." Can I say "I conclude that" instead? You can, but it sounds more personal and less objective than the passive version. Academic writing usually prefers the passive voice. Does it have to be at the end of a paragraph? Not necessarily, but it is most powerful when used as a summary of the points you just made. Why is it so long? Because academic English loves to use five words when one would do—it is part of the charm! Can I use it in a speech? Yes, especially if you are giving a formal presentation or a lecture. It helps the audience realize you are wrapping up your main point. Is it the same as "in conclusion"? They are similar, but "in conclusion" usually starts a whole paragraph, while it can be concluded that starts a specific logical sentence.

Usage Notes

This is a high-level academic and professional expression. It must be followed by a complete clause starting with 'that'. Use it only when you have provided sufficient evidence to justify such a final-sounding statement.

🎯

Use it for 'The Big Reveal'

Save this phrase for your most important point. If you use it for small things, it loses its power.

⚠️

Don't forget 'THAT'

Without 'that', the sentence will fall apart grammatically. Always check for it.

💬

Register Awareness

If you use this in a pub, people might think you're joking or being sarcastic. Stick to the office or the classroom.

Examples

10
#1 In a university research paper
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Based on the survey results, it can be concluded that most students prefer hybrid learning.

Based on the survey results, it can be concluded that most students prefer hybrid learning.

A classic use in academic research to summarize data findings.

#2 Analyzing a Netflix show's popularity on a blog
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With millions of views in the first week, it can be concluded that the series is a global hit.

With millions of views in the first week, it can be concluded that the series is a global hit.

Using formal logic to analyze modern pop culture trends.

#3 A formal business meeting about sales
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Following the 30% drop in revenue, it can be concluded that our current pricing strategy is failing.

Following the 30% drop in revenue, it can be concluded that our current pricing strategy is failing.

Delivering hard truths with an objective, authoritative tone.

#4 A YouTube tech review comparing CPUs
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After looking at the benchmark scores, it can be concluded that the new chip is significantly faster.

After looking at the benchmark scores, it can be concluded that the new chip is significantly faster.

Summarizing technical comparisons for a viewers.

#5 Discussing a viral TikTok trend
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Seeing how many people are doing the dance, it can be concluded that the song will stay at number one.

Seeing how many people are doing the dance, it can be concluded that the song will stay at number one.

Applying a very formal phrase to a very casual, modern context for emphasis.

#6 Instagram caption for a successful event
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

The smiles on everyone's faces say it all; it can be concluded that the gala was a success!

The smiles on everyone's faces say it all; it can be concluded that the gala was a success!

Using formal language to add a touch of class to a social media update.

#7 An emotional letter to a mentor
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Reflecting on all you've taught me, it can be concluded that my career wouldn't exist without your help.

Reflecting on all you've taught me, it can be concluded that my career wouldn't exist without your help.

Combining formal logic with deep personal gratitude.

Common grammar error (missing 'that') Common Mistake
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✗ It can be concluded the experiment was a failure. → ✓ It can be concluded that the experiment was a failure.

✗ It can be concluded the experiment was a failure. → ✓ It can be concluded that the experiment was a failure.

Always remember to include the conjunction 'that' to link to your conclusion.

Common usage error (active voice confusion) Common Mistake
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✗ We can to conclude that the results are in. → ✓ It can be concluded that the results are in.

✗ We can to conclude that the results are in. → ✓ It can be concluded that the results are in.

Avoid using 'to' after 'can' or confusing the passive 'it can be concluded' with active structures.

#10 A humorous take on a bad situation
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Since my phone is in the toilet, it can be concluded that I won't be answering any texts today.

Since my phone is in the toilet, it can be concluded that I won't be answering any texts today.

Using overly formal language for a silly situation for comedic effect.

Test Yourself

Complete the formal sentence using the correct form of the phrase.

Given the evidence of the DNA samples, it ___ ___ ___ that the suspect was present at the scene.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: can be concluded

The passive voice 'be concluded' is required after 'can' in this formal structure.

Which of these is the most appropriate for a scientific paper?

How should you end a paragraph about your findings?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: It can be concluded that the lack of hydration led to plant necrosis.

This option uses the correct formal phrase and academic vocabulary.

Match the register to the sentence.

Match the following:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: all

These correctly identify the formality levels of each concluding phrase.

Choose the best phrase to complete the professional dialogue.

Analyst: 'Our user engagement has doubled since the update.' Manager: 'Excellent. ________ our new features are a hit.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: It can be concluded that

In a professional setting, 'It can be concluded that' provides the necessary authority.

🎉 Score: /4

Visual Learning Aids

Formality Scale

Informal
So... So, we're done.
Formal
It can be concluded that... It can be concluded that the task is complete.

Practice Bank

4 exercises
Complete the formal sentence using the correct form of the phrase. Fill Blank B2

Given the evidence of the DNA samples, it ___ ___ ___ that the suspect was present at the scene.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: can be concluded

The passive voice 'be concluded' is required after 'can' in this formal structure.

Which of these is the most appropriate for a scientific paper? Choose C1

How should you end a paragraph about your findings?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: It can be concluded that the lack of hydration led to plant necrosis.

This option uses the correct formal phrase and academic vocabulary.

Match the register to the sentence. Match B1

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: all

These correctly identify the formality levels of each concluding phrase.

Choose the best phrase to complete the professional dialogue. dialogue_completion B2

Analyst: 'Our user engagement has doubled since the update.' Manager: 'Excellent. ________ our new features are a hit.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: It can be concluded that

In a professional setting, 'It can be concluded that' provides the necessary authority.

🎉 Score: /4

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it's less formal. 'It can be concluded that' is preferred in scientific writing because it sounds more objective.

Usually, it's better at the end of a paragraph or a section, as it signals a 'conclusion.'

In some modern business writing, yes. Some people prefer 'Therefore,' or 'Thus,' to save space.

You can also say 'could be' if you are less certain, or 'must be' if you are 100% sure.

Both! It is a standard part of International Academic English.

Absolutely. It's a great way to transition to your final slide.

'In summary' just repeats the points; 'It can be concluded that' adds a new logical judgment based on those points.

It is almost always 'concluded that' followed by a full sentence.

It might be a bit too heavy. Better to use 'Therefore, I am confident that...' instead.

Because it doesn't use 'I' or 'You.' It treats the conclusion as something that exists on its own.

Related Phrases

🔗

In conclusion

similar

A simpler way to start a final paragraph.

🔄

Therefore

synonym

For that reason.

🔗

It follows that

builds on

It is a logical consequence.

🔗

To sum up

similar

To summarize.

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