C1 Expression Very Formal 7 min read

It can be determined that

Academic essay writing expression

In 15 Seconds

  • States objective conclusions from evidence.
  • Highly formal, academic, and professional.
  • Signals undeniable, logical findings.
  • Avoids personal bias or opinion.

Meaning

This phrase is your secret weapon for sounding super authoritative. It's a formal way to state a conclusion that's backed by solid evidence, not just your personal hunch. Think of it as presenting a logical fact, leaving little room for debate, perfect for when you need to be taken seriously.

Key Examples

3 of 10
1

Presenting research findings at a scientific conference.

Following extensive genomic analysis, it can be determined that the newly identified gene plays a critical role in cellular regeneration.

Following extensive genomic analysis, it can be determined that the newly identified gene plays a critical role in cellular regeneration.

2

In an official government report detailing economic trends.

Based on the quarterly financial indicators, it can be determined that inflation rates have stabilized in the past fiscal year.

Based on the quarterly financial indicators, it can be determined that inflation rates have stabilized in the past fiscal year.

3

A lawyer presenting a summary of facts in a court brief.

Considering the undisputed timestamps and GPS data, it can be determined that the defendant was not in the city at the time of the incident.

Considering the undisputed timestamps and GPS data, it can be determined that the defendant was not in the city at the time of the incident.

🌍

Cultural Background

British academic writing traditionally prizes 'understatement.' Using 'It can be determined that' is seen as more modest and professional than saying 'I have proved.' In US law, this phrase is used to establish 'findings of fact.' It is a heavy-duty phrase that signals a judge or jury has reached a definitive conclusion. Germans value 'Sachlichkeit' (objectivity/matter-of-factness). When speaking English, German professionals often use this phrase because it matches their cultural preference for direct, evidence-based communication. When Japanese professionals use this phrase in English, it often serves as a polite way to avoid saying 'You are wrong.' By saying 'It can be determined that...', they let the data do the talking.

🎯

The 'Passive Shield'

Use this phrase when you want to deliver bad news in a business report. It makes the news seem like an unavoidable fact of logic rather than your personal fault.

⚠️

Don't Overuse

If you use this more than twice in one page of writing, it starts to sound repetitive and 'academic-heavy.' Mix it up with 'Thus,' or 'Therefore.'

In 15 Seconds

  • States objective conclusions from evidence.
  • Highly formal, academic, and professional.
  • Signals undeniable, logical findings.
  • Avoids personal bias or opinion.

What It Means

What do you do when you've just spent hours analyzing data, reading reports, or even just observing a situation closely? You've reached a firm conclusion. But how do you present it so everyone listens, nods, and respects your insight? That's where It can be determined that comes in. This phrase isn't just fancy talk; it's a powerful tool for academic, scientific, and professional communication.

What It Means

Have you ever had to deliver news that's undeniable? Maybe you've proven a point beyond doubt. It can be determined that means precisely this. It signals to your audience that the following statement is a logical outcome. You've weighed the evidence, crunched the numbers, or connected the dots. The conclusion isn't your opinion. It's a fact that's discoverable through analysis. It's like saying, "Based on all this, there's no other logical way to see it." It carries a weight of objectivity and certainty. This phrase helps you present findings with confidence and gravitas.

How To Use It

Using It can be determined that is straightforward, but its impact is huge. You simply place it before the conclusion you've drawn. Think of it as a formal introduction to your undeniable truth. For instance, after showing a graph of sales figures, you might say, It can be determined that customer engagement significantly increased post-campaign. You're not saying *you* think it increased. You're saying the data *shows* it did. It's perfect for research papers, official reports, or serious presentations. You use it when you want your statement to be seen as an objective finding. It’s a bit like a judge delivering a verdict, very calmly stating the facts.

Formality & Register

This phrase lives squarely in the very formal camp. You won't hear it in casual chat with friends. Imagine using it while texting your buddy: It can be determined that we should get pizza tonight. They'd probably think you've lost your mind! It's designed for professional, academic, or legal settings. Think boardrooms, courtrooms, or scientific journals. It elevates your statement, making it sound serious and well-considered. Using it in the right context shows you understand nuances of formal language. It's the linguistic equivalent of wearing a tuxedo to a black-tie event. You wouldn't wear it to a barbecue, right?

Real-Life Examples

Picture a scientist presenting research findings. It can be determined that the new compound inhibits bacterial growth. Or a lawyer summarizing evidence: Based on the testimonies, it can be determined that the defendant was present at the scene. In a business context, a consultant might report: After reviewing market trends, it can be determined that a strategic pivot is advisable. Even in sophisticated news analysis, you might see it. From the polling data, it can be determined that public sentiment is shifting. It's about drawing solid conclusions from solid data. You'll find it often in academic papers, government documents, and technical reports. It's the language of established facts.

When To Use It

When do you pull out this linguistic heavy hitter? Use it when you're presenting a conclusion derived from facts, evidence, or logical deduction. It's ideal for academic writing, scientific reports, legal documents, and formal business proposals. When you need to assert something as an objective truth, without personal bias, this is your phrase. It’s also great for summarizing complex analyses clearly. If you've just laid out a mountain of data, this phrase helps you deliver the distilled insight. Think of it as the grand finale after all your hard work. You've earned the right to make such a definitive statement!

When NOT To Use It

Steer clear of It can be determined that in informal conversations. Seriously, don't use it when chatting with friends, sending casual emails, or posting on social media. It sounds stiff, pretentious, and frankly, a bit robotic. Nobody wants to read It can be determined that you are ignoring my texts from a friend! Avoid it in creative writing unless you're trying to achieve a specific formal tone. It’s also not for expressing opinions or hypotheses. If it's just a thought or a feeling, use softer language. Save this power phrase for when you truly need to flex your analytical muscles. Using it incorrectly is like showing up to a beach party in a full suit of armor.

Common Mistakes

One big mistake is using it interchangeably with phrases like I think or I believe.

I think it can be determined that the experiment failed. It can be determined that the experiment failed. (If the failure is an objective fact).

Another common error is applying it to subjective statements.

It can be determined that this movie is the best ever. I believe this movie is the best ever. (Because 'best' is subjective).

Also, don't use it if the evidence isn't truly conclusive.

From a quick glance, it can be determined that we're out of milk. From a quick glance, it seems we're out of milk. Only use it when the conclusion is genuinely determined.

Common Variations

While It can be determined that is quite specific, there are some related formal phrases that convey similar objective conclusions.

  • It has been established that... (very similar, often implies prior research)
  • It is evident that... (suggests something is clear to see)
  • The evidence suggests that... (a slightly softer, more cautious approach)
  • It is concluded that... (direct, often found in research paper conclusions)
  • Analysis reveals that... (highlights the analytical process).

These variations offer slightly different shades of meaning. Choose the one that best fits the nuance you want to convey. For example, It is evident that is used when something is visually clear, not just logically derived.

Real Conversations

Scenario: Research Presentation

P

Professor

"So, what did your team find in the clinical trials?"
S

Student

"Based on the statistical analysis, it can be determined that the new drug significantly reduces symptom severity."

Scenario: Business Report Meeting

M

Manager

"What's the take-away from our Q3 performance?"
A

Analyst

"Reviewing the financial data, it can be determined that our market share grew by 5% in the last quarter."

Scenario: Legal Brief

Senior Partner: "What's the strength of our case regarding the contract dispute?"

Junior Associate: "From the signed documents and email correspondence, it can be determined that the terms of agreement were indeed violated."

Quick FAQ

* Q: Can I use It can be determined that in an email to my boss?

A: Absolutely, if the email is formal and presents an objective finding. For example, reporting on project progress backed by data. If it's a casual check-in, probably best to choose something less formal. It's all about context, you know?

* Q: Is It can be determined that always followed by a full clause?

A: Yes, it generally introduces a complete sentence with a subject and predicate. This phrase acts as a formal introductory clause to your main finding. It wouldn't make sense otherwise.

* Q: Is there a less formal way to say this?

A: Many! You could say We found that..., The data shows..., It's clear that..., or It turns out that.... Choose based on how casual you want to be. There are tons of options.

* Q: Can I use it to express my opinion?

A: No, not really. This phrase implies objectivity and evidence-based conclusions. If you're stating an opinion, it's better to use phrases like I believe, I think, or In my view. Keep your opinions separate from your facts.

* Q: Does it sound arrogant?

A: Not if used correctly in a formal context. It sounds authoritative and professional. In an informal setting, it might come across as pompous or overly academic, so be mindful of your audience. Just like wearing a suit to a casual event.

Usage Notes

This phrase is intensely formal and academic. It's your go-to for sounding objective and presenting hard facts derived from evidence. Never use it in casual chat; it will sound awkward and out of place. Reserve it for when you need to convey undeniable, carefully deduced truths in serious contexts.

🎯

The 'Passive Shield'

Use this phrase when you want to deliver bad news in a business report. It makes the news seem like an unavoidable fact of logic rather than your personal fault.

⚠️

Don't Overuse

If you use this more than twice in one page of writing, it starts to sound repetitive and 'academic-heavy.' Mix it up with 'Thus,' or 'Therefore.'

💬

The Sarcastic Use

Native speakers sometimes use this sarcastically to state the obvious. Example: 'It can be determined that you haven't washed your car in a year.'

Examples

10
#1 Presenting research findings at a scientific conference.

Following extensive genomic analysis, it can be determined that the newly identified gene plays a critical role in cellular regeneration.

Following extensive genomic analysis, it can be determined that the newly identified gene plays a critical role in cellular regeneration.

Highlights the objective, evidence-based nature of the scientific finding.

#2 In an official government report detailing economic trends.

Based on the quarterly financial indicators, it can be determined that inflation rates have stabilized in the past fiscal year.

Based on the quarterly financial indicators, it can be determined that inflation rates have stabilized in the past fiscal year.

Conveys a conclusive statement derived from formal data analysis.

#3 A lawyer presenting a summary of facts in a court brief.

Considering the undisputed timestamps and GPS data, it can be determined that the defendant was not in the city at the time of the incident.

Considering the undisputed timestamps and GPS data, it can be determined that the defendant was not in the city at the time of the incident.

Used to present a factual conclusion backed by concrete evidence.

#4 A university student's academic essay conclusion.

Upon closer examination of primary sources, it can be determined that historical interpretations require further critical review.

Upon closer examination of primary sources, it can be determined that historical interpretations require further critical review.

Signals an objective conclusion reached through academic analysis.

#5 A data analyst reporting to stakeholders via email.

Analysis of website traffic patterns indicates that it can be determined that user engagement increased by 15% during peak hours.

Analysis of website traffic patterns indicates that it can be determined that user engagement increased by 15% during peak hours.

Presents a data-driven conclusion in a professional context.

#6 A humorous take on a trivial observation.

After observing my cat for precisely three minutes, it can be determined that her main life goal is world domination, or possibly just another nap.

After observing my cat for precisely three minutes, it can be determined that her main life goal is world domination, or possibly just another nap.

Using a very formal phrase for a silly observation creates humor by contrast.

#7 A person reflecting on a profound personal experience.

After years of introspection and countless challenges, it can be determined that true strength lies not in avoiding pain, but in embracing growth.

After years of introspection and countless challenges, it can be determined that true strength lies not in avoiding pain, but in embracing growth.

Emphasizes a deeply felt, yet objectively realized, personal truth.

✗ Wrong usage: Casual chat about a personal preference. Common Mistake

✗ I think it can be determined that coffee is better than tea. → ✓ In my opinion, coffee is definitely better than tea.

✗ I think it can be determined that coffee is better than tea. → ✓ In my opinion, coffee is definitely better than tea.

The phrase is too formal and objective for a subjective personal preference.

✗ Wrong usage: Unsubstantiated claim in a blog post. Common Mistake

✗ From my gut feeling, it can be determined that aliens visit Earth regularly. → ✓ My gut feeling tells me that aliens visit Earth regularly.

✗ From my gut feeling, it can be determined that aliens visit Earth regularly. → ✓ My gut feeling tells me that aliens visit Earth regularly.

Using `it can be determined that` implies evidence, which is lacking here.

#10 A documentary narrator summarizing historical evidence.

Piecing together archaeological findings and ancient texts, it can be determined that the civilization thrived for over a millennium.

Piecing together archaeological findings and ancient texts, it can be determined that the civilization thrived for over a millennium.

Provides an authoritative conclusion based on collected evidence.

Test Yourself

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

After reviewing the security footage, ________ that the door was left unlocked.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: it can be determined that

The full passive construction 'it can be determined that' is required to introduce the clause.

Which situation is most appropriate for using 'It can be determined that'?

Select the best context:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Writing a lab report about a chemistry experiment.

This phrase is highly formal and objective, making it perfect for scientific writing.

Complete the dialogue between two lawyers.

Lawyer A: 'Does the contract mention a termination fee?' Lawyer B: 'Yes, by looking at Section 4, ________ the fee is $500.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: it can be determined that

This maintains the formal, objective tone required in legal discussions.

Match the phrase variation to its tone.

1. It can be determined that... 2. It may be determined that... 3. It has been determined that...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1-Certain, 2-Tentative, 3-Finalized

'Can' implies ability/certainty, 'may' implies possibility/tentativeness, and 'has been' implies a completed process.

🎉 Score: /4

Visual Learning Aids

Practice Bank

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

After reviewing the security footage, ________ that the door was left unlocked.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: it can be determined that

The full passive construction 'it can be determined that' is required to introduce the clause.

Which situation is most appropriate for using 'It can be determined that'? Choose B1

Select the best context:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Writing a lab report about a chemistry experiment.

This phrase is highly formal and objective, making it perfect for scientific writing.

Complete the dialogue between two lawyers. dialogue_completion C1

Lawyer A: 'Does the contract mention a termination fee?' Lawyer B: 'Yes, by looking at Section 4, ________ the fee is $500.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: it can be determined that

This maintains the formal, objective tone required in legal discussions.

Match the phrase variation to its tone. situation_matching C1

1. It can be determined that... 2. It may be determined that... 3. It has been determined that...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1-Certain, 2-Tentative, 3-Finalized

'Can' implies ability/certainty, 'may' implies possibility/tentativeness, and 'has been' implies a completed process.

🎉 Score: /4

Frequently Asked Questions

4 questions

Yes, but only if the conclusion was already mentioned. Example: 'The cause of the leak? It can be determined.' But usually, you need 'that' to introduce the fact.

In a formal essay, yes. In a conversation with your mom, no. It depends entirely on the register.

'Determined' often implies a more technical or mathematical process, while 'concluded' is more about the final thought in an argument.

Yes, especially in professional, legal, and academic settings across the US.

Related Phrases

🔗

It follows that

builds on

As a logical consequence...

🔄

It is evident that

synonym

It is very easy to see that...

🔗

It stands to reason that

similar

It is logical to assume that...

🔗

In light of the evidence

specialized form

Considering the facts we have...

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