C2 Mastery Academic language and C2 style
Advanced academic hedging
Lesson goal. After this lesson you can use advanced academic hedging expressions (would appear to, is by no means certain, it could be argued that, arguably) to write cautious yet clear arguments.
When to use it
- Expressing something that seems true but isn't absolutely certain: The policy would appear to have contributed...
- Formally emphasising a lack of certainty: It is by no means certain that...
- Cautiously offering a personal view, acknowledging debate: It could be argued that...
- Opening a sentence with a hedging adverb: Arguably, this is...
Form
| Hedge | Structure |
|---|---|
| would appear to | S + would appear to + V |
| is by no means certain | It is by no means certain that + clause |
| it could be argued that | It could be argued that + clause |
| arguably | Arguably, + clause |
Step by step
- would appear to + base verb (to V) — more formal than 'seems to', often followed by a contrasting reason/condition (though...).
- is by no means certain: 'by no means' = not at all, formally emphasising negation.
- it could be argued that: passive structure (could be argued), acknowledging this is a viewpoint, not an absolute fact.
- arguably usually starts the sentence, followed by a comma, then the claim.
Degree of certainty of hedges
| Hedge | Certainty level |
|---|---|
| would appear to / seem to | fairly sure but still cautious |
| widely believed | many people believe it; not an absolute fact |
| is by no means certain | clearly NOT certain |
| it could be argued / arguably | a personal view that admits debate |
Examples
The new evidence would appear to challenge the earlier findings.
It is by no means certain that the treaty will be signed this year.
It could be argued that the new curriculum places too much emphasis on testing.
Arguably, this is the most significant reform in a decade.
Common mistakes
This study would appear proving that the method works. → This study would appear to prove that the method works.
would appear + to + base verb (to prove), not the -ing form.
It could argued that the reform was introduced too hastily. → It could be argued that the reform was introduced too hastily.
The passive structure needs 'be': It could be argued that.
This proves the policy failed completely. → It could be argued that the policy achieved only partial success.
In academic argument about a debatable conclusion, hedging is preferred over an absolute claim.
Memory tip
Hedging doesn't weaken an argument — it makes writing sound more cautious and academic than a rigid assertion.
Summary
- would appear to + V = seems to (formal).
- is by no means certain = not at all certain.
- it could be argued that / arguably = offering a viewpoint cautiously.
Practise this lesson
Do exercises with an explanation for every question, take mini tests and track your progress on GrammUp.