may be cited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be cited" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal, academic, or formal contexts to indicate that a source or document can be referenced or quoted. Example: "The findings of this study may be cited in future research to support similar conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

The decision may be cited by players at other private colleges pursuing collective bargaining.

The Guardian - Sport

This joint resolution may be cited as the "Authorization for the Use of Military Force Against Iraq".

The New York Times

Even if that obstacle is overcome, patient confidentiality may be cited to prevent ready exchange of information.

The Guardian

4 Citation, commencement and extent (1) This Measure may be cited as the Bishops and Priests (Consecration and 20 Ordination of Women) Measure 20.

The Guardian

One example may be cited, that of the fallacy of illicit major (or minor) premise, which violates the rules for "distribution".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hence, myths may be cited when a situation in the present is materially affected by what version of the past is accepted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"So we may be citing the wrong number and fanning a flame," Dr. Sepkowitz said.

The New York Times

He tells her that, while she may be citing hospital rules, he has "the law" on his side, a formulation he repeats to one of the paramedics who approaches the car, saying, "There's a very bad habit here of your policy interfering with my law".

The New Yorker

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Vice

Both may be citing Harper's lack of accomplishment in Sacramento as the reason for this ploy.

Los Angeles Times

Caution is warranted in interpreting the findings on stress, however, since smokers may be citing an increase in perceived stress to justify their relapse or failure to quit.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may be cited" in legal or academic writing, ensure the citation adheres to the required format and includes all necessary details to allow readers to locate the original source.

Common error

Avoid using "may be cited" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "mentioned" or "referred to" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be cited" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating that something has the potential or permission to be referenced. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in a variety of contexts. Examples show its usage in reference to laws, acts, and research findings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may be cited" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the possibility or permissibility of referencing a source. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and frequently used in formal writing, especially in the realms of news, science, and encyclopedias. While perfectly acceptable, remember that overuse of "may be cited" in informal settings may sound unnatural; simpler alternatives are often preferable. When including it in academic or legal content, ensure your citations are correctly formatted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be referenced

Uses the synonym "referenced" instead of "cited", keeping the structure intact.

can be referenced

Changes the modal verb from "may" to "can", indicating possibility or permission to reference something.

might be quoted

Replaces "cited" with "quoted", suggesting direct extraction of information.

could be mentioned

Substitutes "cited" with "mentioned", implying a less formal reference.

can be invoked

Replaces "cited" with "invoked", suggesting the use of a rule or law.

might be presented

Emphasizes the act of showing or displaying rather than directly quoting.

could be alluded to

Indicates an indirect reference, rather than a direct citation.

may be instanced

Substitutes "cited" with "instanced", focusing on using something as an example.

can be adduced

Replaces "may be cited" with a more formal and legalistic term, suggesting evidence.

may be appealed to

Implies the use of something as an authority or justification.

FAQs

How do I use "may be cited" in a sentence?

Use "may be cited" to indicate that a particular source, document, or piece of information can be referenced or quoted as evidence or support. For example: "The findings of this study "may be cited" in future research."

What's a less formal alternative to "may be cited"?

If you need a less formal way to express the same idea, you could use phrases like "can be mentioned", "can be referenced", or "can be used". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it correct to say "can be cited" instead of "may be cited"?

Yes, "can be cited" is a perfectly acceptable alternative. While "may" indicates possibility or permission, "can" suggests ability or capability. Both are suitable depending on the intended nuance.

In what contexts is "may be cited" most appropriate?

"May be cited" is most appropriate in formal contexts, such as legal documents, academic papers, and formal reports. It indicates that something is permissible or has the potential to be referenced as supporting evidence.