German phrase
Die Untersuchung kann ~ dauern.
Meaning
The examination may take ___
When to use it
It may take some time. Use it when the duration is uncertain and you want to sound gentle.
Example dialogue
Wie lange dauert die Untersuchung?
How long does the examination take?
Die Untersuchung kann ein paar Stunden dauern.
The examination may take a few hours.