Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that
Literalmente: Certainly can not excluded be, that
Em 15 segundos
- A sophisticated way to say 'it is possible that.'
- Common in news, meetings, and serious debates.
- Uses a 'dass' clause, so the verb goes to the end.
Significado
This phrase is a sophisticated way to admit that something is possible. It is like saying 'Sure, we can't say for certain it won't happen,' but with a more intellectual and balanced tone.
Exemplos-chave
3 de 6Discussing the weather for a hike
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass es am Nachmittag noch regnet.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that it will still rain in the afternoon.
In a business meeting about a deadline
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass wir mehr Zeit für die Analyse brauchen.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that we will need more time for the analysis.
Texting a friend about a party
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass ich doch noch vorbeikomme.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that I might stop by after all.
Contexto cultural
In German universities, 'Freilich' is used to show that you have considered counter-arguments. It is a sign of 'wissenschaftliche Redlichkeit' (scientific integrity). Politicians use this to avoid making definitive promises. It allows them to acknowledge a possibility without being held accountable if it doesn't happen. In Austria, 'freilich' is sometimes used more colloquially to mean 'of course' (like 'selbstverständlich'), but in this specific long construction, it remains formal. The German legal system relies heavily on 'Möglichkeitsformen' (forms of possibility). This phrase is a standard tool for judges to explain their reasoning.
The 'Dass' Trap
Always check your verb at the end of the sentence. It's the most common mistake for B2 learners using this phrase.
Don't Overuse
If you use this phrase more than once in an essay, you will sound repetitive. Use synonyms like 'Es ist denkbar, dass...' for variety.
Em 15 segundos
- A sophisticated way to say 'it is possible that.'
- Common in news, meetings, and serious debates.
- Uses a 'dass' clause, so the verb goes to the end.
What It Means
Imagine you are a detective or a scientist. You are not 100% sure about something, but you cannot say 'no' just yet. This phrase is your ultimate shield. It allows you to acknowledge a possibility without fully committing to it. It is the German way of being intellectually honest. You are essentially saying, 'I see the logic, and it might happen, so let's keep it on the table.' It sounds much more thoughtful than a simple 'maybe.'
How To Use It
This is a classic B2-level construction because of its structure. You start the sentence with Freilich to set a tone of agreement. Then comes the core: kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden. This is a passive-style construction meaning 'cannot be excluded.' The most important part is the dass (that) which follows. Remember, in German, dass is a 'verb-kicker.' This means whatever action you are talking about, the verb must slide to the very end of the sentence. It feels like a long walk to get to the point, but it sounds very elegant to a German ear.
When To Use It
Use this in professional settings or serious discussions. It is perfect for office meetings when you are discussing potential risks or project delays. It also works wonders in serious conversations with friends. If a friend asks if the train might be late again, using this phrase makes you sound realistic and observant. It is also a staple in German journalism and academic writing. It shows you have considered all sides of an argument.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this in high-energy, very casual settings. If you are at a loud party or a football match, it is simply too long and stiff. Your friends might think you are trying to sound like a professor. Also, do not use it if you are actually certain about something. If the sun is clearly shining, saying 'it cannot be ruled out that it is sunny' sounds sarcastic or just plain weird. Keep it for genuine uncertainties.
Cultural Background
The word Freilich is the secret sauce here. While Natürlich is common everywhere, Freilich has a slightly more traditional, Southern German, or Austrian flavor. It feels grounded and sincere. By combining this regional charm with the formal ausgeschlossen werden, you create a beautiful linguistic bridge. It shows you aren't just a student; you are someone who understands the nuances of German logic and regional heritage.
Common Variations
You can easily swap Freilich for Natürlich (naturally) or Sicherlich (certainly) if you want to sound more 'Standard German.' If you want to be even more formal, you could say Es ist keineswegs auszuschließen, dass... (It is by no means to be excluded that...). For a much shorter, casual version, you could just say Es könnte sein, dass... (It could be that...), but you lose that lovely layer of sophistication.
Notas de uso
This phrase sits in the formal to neutral register. It is highly effective in debates or professional writing to show nuance and avoid being overly dogmatic.
The 'Dass' Trap
Always check your verb at the end of the sentence. It's the most common mistake for B2 learners using this phrase.
Don't Overuse
If you use this phrase more than once in an essay, you will sound repetitive. Use synonyms like 'Es ist denkbar, dass...' for variety.
The Bavarian Exception
If you are in Munich and someone asks 'Willst du ein Bier?', and you say 'Freilich!', you are saying 'Hell yes!', not 'It cannot be ruled out'.
Exemplos
6Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass es am Nachmittag noch regnet.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that it will still rain in the afternoon.
A cautious way to warn a friend about the weather.
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass wir mehr Zeit für die Analyse brauchen.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that we will need more time for the analysis.
Professional way to manage expectations without sounding incompetent.
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass ich doch noch vorbeikomme.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that I might stop by after all.
A slightly playful, non-committal way to answer an invitation.
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass der Hund die Pizza gefressen hat.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that the dog ate the pizza.
Using formal language for a silly situation creates a funny contrast.
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass wir uns in verschiedene Richtungen entwickeln.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that we are growing in different directions.
A heavy, serious realization expressed with careful language.
Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass die Preise weiter steigen.
Of course, it cannot be ruled out that prices will continue to rise.
Standard journalistic tone for reporting uncertainty.
Teste-se
Fill in the missing words to complete the formal sentence.
Freilich ______ nicht ausgeschlossen ______, dass wir den Plan ändern müssen.
The phrase requires the modal verb 'kann' and the passive auxiliary 'werden'.
Which sentence uses the correct word order?
Select the correct formal statement:
The 'dass' clause requires the verb 'kommt' at the end, and 'kann' must be in Position 2.
Complete the dialogue with the most appropriate formal response.
A: Glauben Sie, dass die Firma pleite geht? B: ________, dass die finanzielle Lage schwierig ist.
In a professional context, the formal phrase is the most appropriate response to a serious question.
Match the phrase to the correct context.
Where would you most likely read: 'Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass die Zinsen steigen'?
This is a high-register phrase used for professional analysis.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Recursos visuais
Banco de exercicios
4 exerciciosFreilich ______ nicht ausgeschlossen ______, dass wir den Plan ändern müssen.
The phrase requires the modal verb 'kann' and the passive auxiliary 'werden'.
Select the correct formal statement:
The 'dass' clause requires the verb 'kommt' at the end, and 'kann' must be in Position 2.
A: Glauben Sie, dass die Firma pleite geht? B: ________, dass die finanzielle Lage schwierig ist.
In a professional context, the formal phrase is the most appropriate response to a serious question.
Where would you most likely read: 'Freilich kann nicht ausgeschlossen werden, dass die Zinsen steigen'?
This is a high-register phrase used for professional analysis.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Perguntas frequentes
4 perguntasIn many contexts, yes. But 'freilich' has a more formal, slightly old-fashioned, and concessive tone (like 'admittedly').
Yes, especially if you are discussing risks or potential problems. It sounds very professional.
Because it is the passive voice. 'Ausschließen' is an action, so we use 'werden' to show the state of being excluded.
It means 'maybe, and we have to take it seriously.' It's a way of not saying 'no' definitively.
Frases relacionadas
Es ist nicht auszuschließen, dass
synonymIt cannot be ruled out that
Zugegebenermaßen
similarAdmittedly
In Betracht ziehen
builds onTo take into consideration
Ganz und gar nicht
contrastNot at all
