may be caused by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be caused by" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any situation where you need to suggest the possible cause of something. For example, "The pain in his knee may be caused by overuse."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Delay may be caused by Summer.

The New Yorker

Alfred's most extreme symptoms may be caused by his autism.

The New York Times

This may be caused by turbulence in the hot gas.

Harvard University

It may be caused by conifer-feeding sawflies.

Cornell University

An attack may be caused by oral therapy with potassium.

Britannica

Infantile psychological trauma may be caused by surgeries and anesthesia.

Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology

This may be caused by the cross-sectional study design.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

They may be caused by normal or pathological structures.

Insights into Imaging

The observed ionospheric response may be caused by different mechanisms.

Earth, Planets and Space

This may be caused by the precipitation of gypsum (CaSO4).

Applied Water Science

Also, differences in kinetics may be caused by medium compositions.

AMB Express

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "may be caused by". In formal writing, it's crucial to back up these statements with evidence or references to credible sources.

Common error

Avoid presenting a 'may be caused by' statement as a definitive cause. This can mislead readers and undermine the credibility of your writing. Instead, acknowledge the uncertainty and explore multiple potential causes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be caused by" functions as a causal connector, linking an effect to its potential cause. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates a possible relationship without asserting certainty. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts, from scientific explanations to everyday occurrences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

23%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be caused by" functions as a causal connector to suggest a potential reason for an event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in science and news media. When using the phrase, remember to provide potential causes rather than asserting definitive facts to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives such as "could be attributed to" or "might result from" depending on the context and nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is potentially due to

Highlights the tentative nature of the causal relationship.

stems from

Implies that something originates or arises from a specific source.

could be attributed to

Emphasizes attribution, suggesting the cause is assigned based on evidence or inference.

arises out of

Similar to 'stems from', but may imply a more complex or indirect origin.

is possibly a consequence of

Focuses on the outcome as a likely, but not definite, result of something.

might result from

Indicates a possible outcome or consequence of a particular action or event.

is perhaps brought about by

Emphasizes the action of causing or initiating something.

is a product of

Highlights the outcome as a direct result or creation of certain factors.

can be explained by

Suggests a rationalization or understanding of a phenomenon based on certain factors.

is conceivably linked to

Suggests a connection or association that is within the realm of possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "may be caused by" in a sentence?

Use "may be caused by" to suggest a possible, but not definite, reason for something. For example, "The delay "may be caused by Summer"."

What are some alternatives to "may be caused by"?

Alternatives include "could be attributed to", "might result from", or "is potentially due to", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to provide evidence when using "may be caused by"?

While not always required, providing evidence or referencing credible sources strengthens your argument and demonstrates thoroughness, especially in formal or academic writing.

How does "may be caused by" differ from "is caused by"?

"May be caused by" indicates a possibility or suggestion, whereas "is caused by" asserts a definite causal relationship. Use "may be caused by" when you're unsure or presenting a hypothesis.