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Use of "would" to depict uncertain future

English Language & Usage Asked by Xellosprime on June 4, 2021

Consider the following scenario:

  1. A clinical trial that was initiated in Jan 2021 is currently recruiting participants.
  2. The estimated enrollment of the trial is 50 participants.
  3. It is not always sure that all the participants will be enrolled in a clinical trial – the study can decide to reduce the number of participants during the study.

In that case, if I have to report the trial information in a report, can I use “the trial would enroll 50 participants” to depict an uncertain future event? Moreover, will the use of “the trial is estimated to enroll 50 participants” depict a higher level of uncertainty than the former?

Given the option, which one would you prefer to depict a situation with all the uncertainties involved in a setting of technical report writing?

One Answer

"The trial would" isn't appropriate because the trial is definitely occurring. "The trial is estimated to enroll 50 participants." sounds reasonable. Other options that you might consider or find useful are:

  • The trial is currently scheduled to enroll 50 participants.

  • The trial aims to enroll 50 participants.

  • The expected enrollment in the trial is 50 participants.

  • We anticipate a trial enrollment of 50 participants.

  • A trial enrollment of 50 participants is planned.

These are all essentially equivalent.

Correct answer by Chemomechanics on June 4, 2021

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