may also mean

USAGE SUMMARY

"may also mean" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are introducing a definition of a word or phrase, or when you are introducing an alternative meaning to something. Example: "The term 'social distancing' may also mean limiting contact with other people as much as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It may also mean protecting banks' bondholders.

The New York Times

The magazine concluded "clean may also mean well-off".

The Guardian

It may also mean she's calling someone else.

The New Yorker

But it may also mean that they get less business.

The New Yorker

It may also mean that he's not her mate.

The New Yorker

But the reduction in servers may also mean poorer service.

The New York Times - Food

It may also mean strenghtening some domestic institutions.

The Economist

You shouldn't promote – that may also mean practise – drunkenness or promiscuity in the vicinity".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Which regrettable fact may also mean that there are more of us thinking for ourselves.

The Guardian - Opinion

A bad economy may also mean more bankers-turned-ski bums.

The New York Times - Travel

More education may also mean that early signs of a dementia problem are masked.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may also mean" to introduce an alternative interpretation or a secondary consequence of a situation, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "may also mean" when you intend to express a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Instead, use phrases like "results in" or "leads to" to indicate causation clearly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may also mean" functions as a connector to introduce an alternative or additional meaning or implication. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may also mean" is a versatile phrase used to introduce alternative interpretations or secondary implications. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. It is commonly found in news, formal business documents, and encyclopedic entries. When using this phrase, ensure that you're introducing a possible alternative rather than a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Consider alternatives like "could also imply" or "can also signify" for nuanced communication. "May also mean" enhances clarity by suggesting multiple angles to consider.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could also imply

Focuses on suggestion or implication, shifting from direct meaning to a more nuanced interpretation.

can also signify

Emphasizes the symbolic representation or indication beyond the primary definition.

might also suggest

Highlights a possible interpretation or inference, adding a layer of uncertainty.

it further indicates

Adds an element of progression or additional information beyond the initial point.

it likewise denotes

Stresses a parallel or similar meaning or representation.

alternatively, it expresses

Presents a different way of phrasing or articulating a concept.

in other words, it reflects

Offers a rephrasing or clarification of the original statement, showing what it mirrors.

to put it differently, it conveys

Provides an alternative explanation, emphasizing the message being communicated.

by the same token, it represents

Highlights a similar representation or analogy, drawing a parallel.

similarly, it embodies

Focuses on the concept being a tangible or concrete representation of something else.

FAQs

How can I use "may also mean" in a sentence?

Use "may also mean" to introduce a possible alternative interpretation or consequence. For example, "Lower attendance may also mean reduced revenue for the company."

What are some alternatives to "may also mean"?

You can use alternatives like "could also imply", "can also signify", or "might also suggest" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "may can also mean"?

No, "may can also mean" is grammatically incorrect. "May" and "can" are both modal verbs and should not be used together in this way. The correct phrase is "may also mean".

What's the difference between "may also mean" and "definitely means"?

"May also mean" suggests a possibility or an alternative interpretation, while "definitely means" indicates a certain and direct consequence or definition. The first implies uncertainty, the second, certainty.