it may be sensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it may be sensible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that a particular action or idea could be reasonable or wise under certain circumstances. Example: "Considering the current market trends, it may be sensible to invest in renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Myth 4: the government must always balance its budget While it may be sensible for a government to attempt budgetary balance over the full business cycle, it would be folly to insist that the budget must balance every year.

The Guardian - Opinion

For example, it may be sensible to treat imaging data relating to an important surgical procedure differently from other traffic.

MIT Technology Review

For senior employees, where appropriate, it may be sensible to consider some Linkedin safeguards alongside some suitably drafted restrictive covenants.

Independent

It may be sensible, though, to make one big withdrawal and plonk the money somewhere more profitable.

The Guardian - Money

For companies with an international reach, it may be sensible to hire remote workers in other countries who have local expertise and language skills.

The Guardian

Hence, after the surge in immigration since 1997, it may be sensible to have a temporary phase of slower immigration while we take stock of its social consequences.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Pensioners have so far been much less affected by the coalition's austerity policies than younger people.It may be sensible to outline future welfare cuts so that their victims are forewarned.

The Economist

It's a mouthful, buit may be sensible in practice... if there are officials and ministers around who know enough about the job to ensure the contractors are performing according to spec. Private finance initiative (PFI) A Tory idea developed further by Labour.

The Guardian

As a negotiating tactic this may be sensible, but it is hardly a recipe for arriving to the cooperative outcome.

Huffington Post

Investing in stocks like these may be sensible — if investors behave sensibly.

The New York Times

"Wait and see" may be sensible diplomacy, but it is lousy politics.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it may be sensible", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the degree of certainty or recommendation you intend to convey. For stronger recommendations, consider alternatives like "it is advisable".

Common error

Avoid using "it may be sensible" excessively, as it can weaken your writing and make you appear indecisive. Balance its use with more assertive statements when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may be sensible" functions as a hedging device, used to express a suggestion or recommendation with a degree of tentativeness. As Ludwig examples show, it softens the assertion, making it less forceful. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it may be sensible" is a versatile phrase used to suggest a reasonable or practical course of action. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for a variety of contexts, particularly in science, news, and business communications. While the phrase isn't particularly formal, overuse may dilute writing impact. Alternative phrases like "it might be wise" or "it could be prudent" can offer subtle shifts in emphasis. Overall, "it may be sensible" is a useful tool for offering advice and suggestion diplomatically.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might be wise

Focuses on the wisdom aspect, implying a considered and judicious approach.

it could be prudent

Emphasizes caution and careful management of resources or risks.

it would be advisable

Highlights the recommendation aspect, suggesting that something is worth doing.

it may be judicious

Implies making sound judgments and decisions based on available information.

it could be reasonable

Stresses the logical and justifiable nature of an action or idea.

it might be practical

Focuses on the feasibility and usefulness of something in a real-world setting.

it may be logical

Highlights the inherent sense and reasoning behind a particular course of action.

it would be smart

Emphasizes the intelligence and cleverness of a particular approach.

it could be advantageous

Stresses the potential benefits and positive outcomes of a decision.

it might be beneficial

Highlights the positive impact and helpfulness of a particular action.

FAQs

How can I use "it may be sensible" in a sentence?

You can use "it may be sensible" to suggest a reasonable or wise course of action. For example, "Given the risks involved, "it may be sensible" to postpone the project."

What are some alternatives to "it may be sensible"?

Alternatives include "it might be wise", "it could be prudent", or "it would be advisable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it may be sensible" a formal or informal expression?

"It may be sensible" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal expression, suitable for both professional and academic writing. More informal alternatives exist if a less formal tone is desired.

When is it appropriate to use "it may be sensible"?

Use "it may be sensible" when you want to suggest that a particular action or decision is reasonable and practical, but without stating it as an absolute necessity or certainty.