may be asserted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be asserted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing claims, statements, or propositions that can be stated or declared as true or valid. Example: "In the context of this debate, it may be asserted that both sides have valid points worth considering."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Privilege may be asserted though there is nothing to impeach.

Cornell University

General jurisdiction may be asserted over a defendant "whose activities in the forum state have been continuous and systematic...

Harvard University

Such causes of action may be asserted by or against the United States or such official of the Department as may be appropriate.

Cornell University

However, some courts have held that "misuse of a copyright, in violation of the antitrust laws, may be asserted as a defense in copyright infringement cases". United Telephone Co. of Missouri v. Johnson Pub.

Harvard University

Whether personal liability may be asserted against executors and administrators for failure to pay taxes that our decisions did not tolerate at the time the estates were closed likewise depends on the laws of the chartering states.

Cornell University

The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to such claims as may be asserted under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure by third party complaint, cross-claim, or counterclaim.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

An individual who produces documents may be asserting that they satisfy the general description in the subpoena, or that they were in his possession or under his control.

Cornell University

Ms. Nakadate may be asserting feminist self-empowerment and satirizing seamy sexual dynamics, but you can't help feeling sorry for the apparently harmless and lonely men whom she teases.

The New York Times

HOWEVER, forcibly the stock market may be asserting the desirability of liquidation, there are no signs that managements are giving serious consideration to the issue.

Forbes

It seems that the Saudi authorities may be asserting their authority over the Wahabi clergy.

Vice

The Y2K upset defense may not be asserted for a Y2K upset occurring after June 30, 2000.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may be asserted" when you want to express that something is possibly true or can be legitimately claimed, but without definitively stating it as a fact. It's suitable for academic, legal, or formal contexts where precision and nuance are important.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice with "may be asserted" as it can make your writing sound weak or evasive. Consider whether an active construction would be more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "It may be asserted that...", try "Researchers may assert that..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be asserted" functions as a modal verb phrase used to indicate a possibility, suggestion, or a claim that can be put forward, but not necessarily proven. Ludwig AI confirms this is valid in standard English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

33%

Science

33%

News & Media

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may be asserted" serves as a modal verb phrase used to express that a statement or claim is potentially valid or true, but not definitively proven. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in formal contexts such as academia, science, and legal settings, this phrase allows for nuanced communication where ideas are presented tentatively. When writing, avoid overusing the passive voice. Alternatives include phrases like "can be claimed" or "might be stated", each carrying slightly different connotations. Understanding these nuances can enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be claimed

Changes the modal verb to "can", suggesting ability or permission to claim something.

might be stated

Replaces "may" with "might", indicating a lower degree of certainty and uses "stated" instead of "asserted".

could be argued

Emphasizes the potential for argumentation or debate around the assertion.

is possibly true

Focuses on the truth value of the assertion, framing it as a possibility.

can be maintained

Highlights the act of upholding or defending an assertion.

can be posited

Replaces "asserted" with "posited", implying the suggestion of an idea or theory.

is potentially arguable

Highlights the potential for debate or contention regarding the validity of the assertion.

is open to assertion

Shifts the focus to the availability of the assertion for consideration or acceptance.

might hold true

Indicates the potential for the assertion to remain valid or correct over time or under specific circumstances.

is subject to declaration

Focuses on the assertion being something which is liable or prone to be declared.

FAQs

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

"May be asserted" indicates a possibility or a claim that can be made. For example, "It "may be asserted" that the new policy will increase efficiency."

What are some alternatives to "may be asserted"?

Alternatives include "can be claimed", "might be stated", or "could be argued", depending on the level of certainty and the context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "may be asserted"?

While "may be asserted" is inherently passive, consider using an active construction for a more direct tone. For example, instead of "It may be asserted by some", try "Some "may assert" that...".

What does "may be asserted" imply about the claim being made?

The phrase suggests that the claim is not yet definitively proven but is arguable or potentially true. It leaves room for discussion and further investigation. It's less definitive than saying something "is" true.