may be desirable

USAGE SUMMARY

'may be desirable' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to express that something has a desirable quality or that it is something that is preferable. For example, "A longer battery life may be desirable for laptop users."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

NEW contraceptives may be desirable.

The Economist

Shorter abutments may be desirable.

The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry

Hiking boots are essential, and walking poles may be desirable.

Cornell University

It may be desirable to have a new electoral law.

The Economist

Perfection, the poem tells us, may be desirable but it remains unattainable.

The Guardian - Books

However, price-linking also ties subsidies to health care cost shocks, which may be desirable.

Harvard University

But the task force said that, in some fields, fewer grad students may be desirable.

Princeton University

Where possible, coupling teaching inventories with observation protocols may be desirable.

Yale University

However, it is recognized that in some circumstances, more formal approaches may be desirable.

Columbia University

It may be desirable to put in more money, if feasible.

The New York Times

More likely, a piece may be desirable because it came out of a certain museum collection.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may be desirable", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what finds it desirable. Be specific rather than vague to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "may be desirable" when a stronger affirmation is warranted. If something is clearly essential or highly recommended, use stronger language like "is necessary" or "is highly recommended" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be desirable" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that something is potentially advantageous or preferable, but not necessarily essential. Ludwig examples show this usage across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

27%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be desirable" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that indicates something is potentially advantageous or preferable but not strictly necessary. Ludwig AI confirms this, providing numerous examples across diverse contexts, including science, news media, and academia. While the phrase exhibits a neutral to formal register, its specific implications can vary based on the situation. When using this expression, it is vital to ensure the context clearly defines who or what finds the item desirable, as that avoids any potential ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be beneficial

Similar to 'may be desirable' but with a stronger emphasis on positive effects.

may be advantageous

Indicates a potential advantage or favorable outcome.

might be preferable

Suggests that one option is more suitable or favored than others.

might be beneficial

Highlights the potential for a positive effect or improvement.

may be advisable

Suggests a prudent or sensible course of action.

could be advantageous

Emphasizes potential benefits or positive outcomes.

might be appropriate

Highlights the suitability of something in a given situation.

could prove useful

Focuses on the practicality and helpfulness of something.

might be welcome

Focuses on the positive reception or acceptance of something.

could be recommended

Implies that something is worth suggesting or advising.

FAQs

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

Use "may be desirable" to suggest something is advantageous or preferred, but not essential. For instance, "For optimal performance, a faster processor "may be desirable"".

What are some alternatives to "may be desirable"?

You can use alternatives such as "might be beneficial", "could be advantageous", or "may be preferable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "may be desirable" or "is desirable"?

"May be desirable" indicates a suggestion or preference, while "is desirable" implies a stronger, more definitive endorsement. The choice depends on the degree of certainty and emphasis you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "may be desirable" and "may be necessary"?

"May be desirable" indicates something that would be good to have or do, while "may be necessary" suggests something is required or essential to achieve a specific outcome. Desirability is a preference, necessity is a requirement.