may be avoided

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be avoided" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to suggest that something can or should be avoided in a particular situation. Here is an example sentence: "By following a healthy diet and exercise regimen, chronic health issues may be avoided."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Procedures whereby such conflicts may be avoided or properly managed.

Yale University

"Further downgrades may be avoided," Mr. Pryce said.

The New York Times

However, using the next possible variant of the correction term these difficulties may be avoided.

Acta Materialia

The use of volatile, organic solvents (VOCs) and of supporting electrolytes may be avoided.

Electrochimica Acta

Gelation may be avoided if a suitable feed ratio is used.

Polymer

A head injury may be avoided but a neck or spinal injury can still result.

The New York Times - Travel

But there is reason to hope that such a world may be avoided.

The New York Times - Arts

This awkward situation may be avoided by means of a mathematical construction called a vector.

Britannica

By examining common challenges to recruitment, many of the pitfalls of minority recuitment may be avoided.

Applied Nursing Research

This makes cumbersome process of diverter error evaluation insignificant and may be avoided.

Measurement

Numerous interactions in a homogeneous vehicle may be avoided through the use of layered tablets.

International Journal of Pharmaceutics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may be avoided" to suggest a course of action that could lead to the prevention of a negative outcome. It's best when the avoidance isn't guaranteed, but possible.

Common error

While "may be avoided" is grammatically sound, over-reliance on passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider active constructions for a more direct and impactful tone, such as "you can avoid" or "we should prevent".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be avoided" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing possibility. It suggests that a particular outcome or situation is not inevitable and can potentially be prevented or circumvented. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a grammatically sound construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

27%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "may be avoided" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression indicating a potential for preventing something undesirable. Ludwig AI underlines its common usage in various fields. Predominantly found in scientific and news-related contexts, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse audiences. Remember to use it when suggesting possibilities for prevention, and consider active voice constructions for a stronger writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be prevented

Emphasizes the possibility of stopping something from happening.

can be averted

Suggests a more proactive effort to turn something away or prevent it.

could be circumvented

Focuses on finding a way around a problem or obstacle.

can be evaded

Implies skillfully escaping or dodging something undesirable.

might be precluded

Highlights the potential to make something impossible beforehand.

can be forestalled

Indicates taking action to prevent something from occurring or developing.

is preventable

Focuses on the inherent ability to stop something from happening.

can be stopped

Simple and direct alternative emphasizing cessation.

can be obviated

Suggests removing the necessity of something by addressing its cause.

can be dodged

Emphasizes quick or skillful avoidance.

FAQs

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

Use "may be avoided" to suggest that an action or situation can potentially prevent an undesirable outcome. For example, "Risky investments "may be avoided" by seeking professional financial advice."

What can I say instead of "may be avoided"?

You can use alternatives like "can be prevented", "could be averted", or "is preventable" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "may be avoided" or "can be avoided"?

Both "may be avoided" and "can be avoided" are grammatically correct. "May be avoided" suggests a possibility, while "can be avoided" indicates an ability or capability to avoid something.

What's the difference between "may be avoided" and "should be avoided"?

"May be avoided" indicates a possibility of prevention, while "should be avoided" expresses a recommendation or obligation to prevent something. "Should be avoided" implies a stronger need for prevention.