may be asked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be asked" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone has the potential to be questioned or prompted for information in the future. Example: "During the interview, candidates may be asked about their previous work experience and skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"You may be asked to touch someone.

The New York Times

Who, it may be asked, was Finnegan?

The Guardian - Books

You may be asked into the frame.

The New York Times

You may be asked your budget.

The Guardian - Money

You may be asked to send confirmation of your results.

The Guardian

Some commissioners may be asked to stay, he said.

The New York Times

You may be asked for proof that they are needed".

The New York Times

"Ratepayers may be asked to become lenders," he said.

The New York Times

You may be asked for a sponsor in Iran.

The Guardian - Travel

What, it may be asked, is the book about?

The Guardian - Books

David Cameron may be asked about the report.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may be asked" when indicating a possibility or likelihood, but not a certainty. For scenarios where a definite request is made, use "will be asked" or "must be asked".

Common error

Avoid using "may be asked" when the situation dictates a mandatory action. "May" indicates possibility, whereas "will" indicates certainty. For instance, don't write, "All participants may be asked to provide identification" if providing identification is mandatory. Instead, use "will be asked" or "must provide".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be asked" functions as a passive modal construction indicating possibility or potential. It is typically used to express that someone might be subjected to a request, question, or requirement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

32%

Wiki

26%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be asked" is a versatile and commonly used modal construction to express the possibility of someone being subjected to a request or question. As Ludwig AI underlines, it’s grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, predominantly in news, scientific, and wiki environments. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the level of certainty – reserving it for scenarios where the action is possible but not guaranteed. For certain actions, using "will be asked" is more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be requested

Emphasizes the potential for a formal request, differing slightly in formality.

might be inquired

Suggests a slightly less direct or formal approach to asking.

could be questioned

Focuses specifically on the aspect of being questioned or interrogated.

might be prompted

Suggests a gentle encouragement or cue to provide information.

may be required

Indicates a necessity or obligation, shifting the emphasis from possibility to requirement.

could be subject to

Implies a possibility of facing a particular action or process.

might have to provide

Emphasizes the potential obligation to furnish something.

may need to clarify

Highlights the potential necessity for making something clearer.

could face inquiries

Specifically refers to facing questions or investigations.

might anticipate

Suggests expecting or predicting a question or request.

FAQs

How can I use "may be asked" in a sentence?

The phrase "may be asked" indicates a possibility or potential. For example, "During the interview, you "may be asked" about your previous experience" suggests that this question is possible, but not guaranteed.

What phrases are similar to "may be asked"?

Similar phrases include "could be requested", "might be inquired", or "could be questioned". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "might be asked" instead of "may be asked"?

Yes, "might be asked" is a perfectly acceptable alternative. Both "may" and "might" express possibility, although "might" can sometimes suggest a slightly lower probability.

What's the difference between "may be asked" and "will be asked"?

"May be asked" indicates a possibility, while "will be asked" indicates a certainty or requirement. Use "will be asked" when the action is guaranteed to occur.