it may cause harm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it may cause harm" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing potential negative effects or risks associated with an action, substance, or situation. Example: "Before using this chemical, please be aware that it may cause harm if not handled properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"More important," say the Dartmouth clinicians, "there is some evidence it may cause harm".

The Economist

But there is little evidence to support it, and in some cases it may cause harm.

The New York Times

It may cause harm if attempting to overstretch contracted muscles within limited ROM of hip and knee joint.

BioMed Research International

If the infant is vigorous, endotracheal suction is not recommended because it may cause harm and does not improve the outcome [ 41].

European Journal of Pediatrics

It may undermine the general trust in science and scientists, and it may cause harm if future research or therapy attempts to rely on fraudulent results.

BMC Medical Ethics

Be aware that it may cause harm in large quantities, although some studies disagree.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Unless the situation really warrants it (their behavior may cause harm to themselves or others, or is on the way far side of moral and acceptable behaviour), graciously overlook their gaffes and shortcomings.

WikiHow

As the result of long term intake even though it is small amount, the preservatives may cause harm to consumers within some sickness and in chromosomes level.

BioMed Research International

It is well known that overfeeding critically ill patients may cause harm [2, 32].

Annals of Intensive Care

It is well known that overfeeding critically ill patients may cause harm [ 2, 32].

Annals of Intensive Care

The acute intake of absinthe is not thought to be harmful, but chronic, long-term consumption may cause harm.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential risks, clearly specify what "it" refers to and the nature of the harm it may cause. For instance, instead of saying "Using this product may cause harm", specify: "Using this product may cause skin irritation if not diluted properly."

Common error

Avoid using "it may cause harm" without providing context or specifying the type of harm. This can lead to confusion and undermine the credibility of your statement. Always provide specific details about the potential negative consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may cause harm" functions as a warning or cautionary statement. It serves to alert the audience to potential negative consequences or risks associated with a particular action, substance, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it may cause harm" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate a potential risk or negative consequence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable phrase. While it appears most frequently in scientific contexts, it is also found in news media and general informational content. To use the phrase effectively, provide specific details about the potential harm and the conditions under which it might occur, avoiding overgeneralizations. Consider alternatives like "it could be detrimental" or "it poses a risk" to fine-tune the nuance of your statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it could be detrimental

Emphasizes the potential for significant negative impact.

it might be hazardous

Highlights the risk of danger or harm.

it can be damaging

Focuses on the potential for causing damage or injury.

it poses a risk

Identifies the presence of a potential threat.

it presents a danger

Highlights the presence of a potential hazard.

it carries a threat

Emphasizes the potential for harm or danger.

it has potential pitfalls

Suggests hidden dangers or problems.

it might have adverse effects

Focuses on negative consequences or side effects.

it is potentially injurious

Highlights the possibility of causing injury.

it could lead to complications

Focuses on the possibility of problems arising.

FAQs

How can I use "it may cause harm" in a sentence?

Use "it may cause harm" to indicate a potential risk or negative consequence associated with something. For example: "Prolonged exposure to the chemical "may cause harm" to the respiratory system."

What are some alternatives to saying "it may cause harm"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it could be detrimental", "it might be hazardous", or "it poses a risk", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "it may cause harm" or "it will cause harm"?

"It may cause harm" indicates a possibility, while "it will cause harm" implies certainty. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the level of risk based on available evidence. If there's a confirmed effect, "it will cause harm" is appropriate; otherwise, "it may cause harm" is more suitable.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "it may cause harm"?

The phrase is appropriate in contexts where you need to warn about potential risks, such as in product labels, medical advice, or safety guidelines. It's crucial to be specific about the nature of the harm and the conditions under which it might occur.