may I make use of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may I make use of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when politely asking for permission to utilize something or to take advantage of a resource. Example: "May I make use of your computer to finish my report?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

MAY I make use. of your columns to correct an error in my "Studies in Polycthæt Larvæ" in a recent number of the Q.J.M.S.? The specimen there described as a young Odontosyllis sp. I have since found to be in reality a fully.

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In the most general case, fitness will depend on the mutant frequencies x i, as different mutants may make use of different resources, and the relative resource concentrations change as the mutant frequencies change.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Posterior insula activation has been ascribed to proprioceptive functions, which may not be surprising since participants may make use of proprioceptive feedback information upon error commission, such as the action of pressing the response button [23].

Plosone

You may not make use of the pool then but, hey, there's also a fireplace.

The New York Times - Travel

Editors may also make use of and publish, temporarily, images that deviate from the above-mentioned imaging standards.

Yale University

In these cases, students will on average pay an extra three or four weeks' rent which they may not make use of.

The Guardian - Money

Studio Universal may also make use of voice effects in some cases where audio for Walker's character Brian O'Conner is unavailable.

The Guardian - Film

"Activists may also make use of training camps to rehearse tactics and counter-strategies for dealing with the police and to resolve any logistical issues," the memorandum continued.

The New York Times

You may also make use of our Topic Index, which includes a complete alphabetical listing of all fossil localities discussed within our Geology Wing.

University of California, Berkeley

This paper presents and verifies a new idea for constructing rotary ultrasonic motor that may effectively make use of the longitudinal vibrations of the bolt-clamped transducers.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

The phone may also make use of a dual GSM/CDMA Gobi chipset, making it a truly global device, the blog said, basing that speculation on comments Verizon CFO Fran Shammo made in the company's last earnings call.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may I make use of", ensure the context is appropriate for a polite and somewhat formal request. It's suitable in professional settings or when addressing someone of higher authority.

Common error

Avoid using "may I make use of" in casual conversations or informal settings where a simpler phrase like "can I use" would be more appropriate. Overusing formal language can sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may I make use of" functions as an interrogative expression used to politely request permission to utilize something. As Ludwig AI notes, it is deemed grammatically correct. The examples provided illustrate its usage in seeking authorization to use a resource or access a service.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

27%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may I make use of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to politely request permission to utilize something, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While the phrase is relatively rare, it's suitable for formal and professional settings, particularly in academic, scientific, and business contexts. When a more casual tone is appropriate, consider using alternatives like "can I use". Remember to tailor your language to the specific situation and audience to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Can I use

This is a more direct and informal way to ask for permission to use something.

May I utilize

This alternative uses a more formal verb, 'utilize', while retaining the polite request format.

Could I employ

Similar to 'utilize', 'employ' offers a slightly more sophisticated and formal tone.

Would you allow me to use

This phrase is a more roundabout and polite way to ask for permission.

Am I permitted to use

This is a very formal way to ask for permission, emphasizing the permission aspect.

Is it okay if I use

This is a casual and less formal way to seek permission.

Can I have access to

This alternative focuses on gaining access rather than just using something.

May I draw upon

This phrase is suitable when referring to abstract resources or knowledge.

May I avail myself of

This is a highly formal and somewhat archaic way of requesting the use of something.

May I take advantage of

This suggests utilizing something beneficial, but can sometimes have a negative connotation depending on context.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "may I make use of"?

The phrase "may I make use of" is appropriate in formal contexts where you want to politely request permission to use something. This includes professional settings, academic environments, or when addressing someone in a position of authority. In casual settings, consider using alternatives like "can I use".

What are some alternatives to "may I make use of" that are less formal?

Less formal alternatives to "may I make use of" include "can I use", "is it okay if I use", or "can I have access to". The choice depends on the specific context and your relationship with the person you're asking.

Is "may I make use of" considered grammatically correct?

Yes, "may I make use of" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules for forming a polite request. Ludwig AI confirms this by classifying it as correct and usable.

How can I ensure I'm using "may I make use of" correctly in a sentence?

To use "may I make use of" correctly, ensure your sentence clearly states what you are asking to use and why. For example, "May I make use of your computer to finish my report?" or "May I make use of the library's resources for my research?"