may be bound

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be bound" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to express the possibility of being restricted or obligated by certain conditions or rules. Example: "The contract states that all parties may be bound by the terms outlined within it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

31 Rilpivirine is highly protein-bound, and more than 99% may be bound to human plasma proteins in a concentration-dependent manner.

HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care

Its richly chromatic harmonic language may be bound to late-Romantic models.

The New York Times

Some think her hands may be bound, though Mr. Li doesn't confirm that.

The New York Times

In some states, electors may be bound by state law to support the nominee of the party that recommended them.

The New York Times

Articles may be bound into a book that the class can use as a reference for samples of interesting writing.

The New York Times

Particularly in the employer-employee context, a person may be bound to keep information of another confidential.

The Guardian

Delegates may be bound for only one convention ballot or until they are released by the candidate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mrs. Rowland may be bound by her frustrating circumstances, she may be surviving by her strength to badger, but she is hardly an appealing portrait.

The New York Times

Women may be bound together by the violence we collectively face, but the roots of that violence and its solutions are as diverse as we are.

The Guardian - Opinion

Certain gestures as well as words may be bound up with the act of blessing, as in putting one's hands on the head of the person being blessed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Because News Corporation is based in the United States, even employees in other countries may be bound by the act, which forbids payments to foreign officials.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may be bound", ensure the context clearly indicates what is imposing the potential obligation or restriction. Clarity helps avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "may be bound" when the situation is definite. If an obligation is confirmed, use stronger terms like "is required" or "must be".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be bound" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing a possibility or potential obligation. Ludwig examples showcase its use in legal, scientific, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may be bound" is a versatile modal verb phrase used to express a potential obligation, restriction, or connection. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, including science, news and media, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "might be obligated" or "could be restricted" exist, choosing the right phrasing depends on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Remember to ensure clarity in your writing by specifying what imposes the potential obligation, and avoid using it when the obligation is already confirmed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be obligated

Replaces "may" with "might", suggesting a slightly weaker possibility of obligation.

could be restricted

Focuses on the potential for limitations or constraints, rather than obligation.

could be constrained

Highlights the possibility of being limited or restricted by external factors.

might be connected

Emphasizes a possible link or association, shifting the focus from obligation to relationship.

might be required

Focuses on the possibility of a necessity or obligation being imposed.

could be compelled

Indicates a potential external force or pressure leading to obligation.

could be associated

Indicates a potential relationship or link, often in a statistical or correlational sense.

might be tied

Suggests a potential connection or dependency, similar to being linked or related.

might be destined

Suggests a possible predetermined outcome or fate, shifting the focus to inevitability.

could be annexed

Implies a possible addition or attachment, typically referring to land or territory.

FAQs

How to use "may be bound" in a sentence?

Use "may be bound" to indicate a possibility of being obligated or restricted by something. For example, "Participants "may be bound" by the confidentiality agreement."

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

You can use alternatives like "might be obligated", "could be restricted", or "might be connected" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "may be bound" or "is bound"?

"May be bound" indicates a possibility, while "is bound" implies certainty. Use "is bound" when the obligation is confirmed; otherwise, use "may be bound".

What's the difference between "may be bound" and "could be bound"?

The difference between ""may be bound"" and "could be bound" is subtle. "May" suggests a slightly higher probability or permission, while "could" suggests a potential possibility. Both are generally interchangeable.