it may entail

USAGE SUMMARY

'it may entail' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that the action or decision being discussed could have various additional consequences. For example: "Pursuing a degree in a different field may entail taking additional classes to cover the prerequisites for the program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

For some, it may entail exactly the opposite.

The Guardian

It may entail renegotiated business terms in the lease.

The New York Times

The mechanism that produces the Cheyne-Stokes ventilation pattern is unclear, but it may entail unstable feedback regulation of breathing.

Britannica

Indeed, once the popularity of a cultural experience reaches a certain threshold, failure to consume it may entail significant social costs.

The New York Times

It may entail hiking, ski touring or trying heliskiing – and comes with additional risks, since off-piste runs aren't protected from avalanches by piste patrollers.

The Telegraph

The mechanism that produces the Cheyne-Stokes ventilation pattern is still argued, but it may entail unstable feedback regulation of breathing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Significantly, it added: "This may entail on occasion the applying of UK resources to the meeting of US requirements".

The Guardian

Considering these results, that illustrate the advantages of recording full spectral data at all positions of an examined painting area may entail, it is expected that hyper- and full spectral imaging of paint surfaces in the IR fingerprint region will open up new and broad perspectives for non-invasive analysis.

Heritage Science

A major advantage of using a single distribution is that it eliminates confusion that multiple distributions may entail.

Health Economics Review

If it is found to be malignant, treatment may entail surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is possible that other Bcd gradients may entail different dynamical mechanisms of pattern formation.

BMC Systems Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it may entail" when you want to suggest that something could potentially involve or lead to certain consequences, without stating it as a certainty. This softens the statement and indicates a possibility rather than a definite outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "it may entail" when you are certain about the consequences. In situations where the outcome is definite, use stronger phrases like "it will entail" or "it requires" to accurately reflect the level of certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may entail" functions as a modal verb phrase used to express possibility or potential consequence. It indicates that a particular action or situation could lead to a specific result, without stating it as a certainty. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it may entail" is a versatile phrase used to express the potential consequences or requirements of a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical structure and appropriateness for diverse writing contexts. It's particularly useful in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts, where a balanced and cautious tone is often preferred. Remember to use this phrase when you want to suggest a possibility rather than a certainty, and consider alternatives like "it could involve" or "it might require" for nuanced expression. Avoid overstating certainty, and ensure the register aligns with your intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it could involve

Replaces 'entail' with 'involve', suggesting a less formal and potentially broader range of consequences.

it might require

Emphasizes a necessary condition or prerequisite, making it slightly more specific than 'entail'.

it can lead to

Focuses on a causal relationship, highlighting a possible outcome or result.

it might necessitate

Uses a more formal synonym for 'require', increasing the formality level.

it could give rise to

Suggests the emergence of something as a result, focusing on origination.

it can bring about

Similar to 'lead to', but with a sense of actively causing something to happen.

it may call for

Suggests a need or demand for something, emphasizing a requirement.

it might encompass

Suggests that something is included or covered within the scope of the original action.

it could imply

Focuses on indirect suggestions or logical consequences, rather than direct requirements.

it may bring with it

Highlights that something is accompanied by certain conditions or results.

FAQs

What does "it may entail" mean?

The phrase "it may entail" means that something could possibly involve or lead to a particular result or consequence. It suggests a potential outcome rather than a certainty.

How can I use "it may entail" in a sentence?

You can use "it may entail" to describe the potential consequences of a decision or action. For example: "Investing in this project "it may entail" significant financial risk."

What are some alternatives to "it may entail"?

Some alternatives to "it may entail" include phrases like "it could involve", "it might require", or "it can lead to". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "it may entail" formal or informal?

"It may entail" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase. It's suitable for academic, professional, and news contexts. More informal alternatives might include "it could mean" or "it might involve".