may be distributed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be distributed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is allowed to be shared or disseminated, often in formal or legal contexts. Example: "The materials provided in this workshop may be distributed to all participants for their reference."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Materials may be distributed from the tables only.

Cornell University

Free tickets may be distributed by organisations that buy them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Data may be distributed by fragmentation and replication of tables.

Data Analysis for Database Design

But she withheld a final judgment on whether "60 Years Later" may be distributed.

The New York Times

It may be distributed, in whole or part, through existing state grant programs.

MIT Technology Review

The payment will consist of cash, stock or a combination "as may be distributed to unsecured creditors," it says.

The New York Times

Blame for the near-demise of HBOS may be distributed widely when we finally see the official report.

The Guardian - Business

Or, again, public land may be distributed to individuals, as in various parts of Latin America.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Traditionally, reference documentation is designed for textbooks even though it may be distributed online.

Journal of Systems and Software

Using this principle, material properties such as losses may be distributed in the system and may vary with frequency.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

As discussed above, databases may be distributed, in the sense that data reside at different host computers on a network.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may be distributed" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being distributed and under what conditions.

Common error

Avoid using "may be distributed" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "can be shared" or "can be given out" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be distributed" primarily functions as a passive construction indicating permission or possibility. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for indicating that something is allowed to be shared or disseminated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

33%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be distributed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to indicate permission or possibility related to the act of distribution. While versatile, it's most commonly found in scientific, news, and academic contexts, suggesting a formal to neutral register. For informal settings, simpler alternatives are often more appropriate. When writing, ensure clarity regarding what is being distributed and the conditions under which it occurs. Ludwig's examples highlight the breadth of its applicability, from physical materials to abstract concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be distributed

Indicates ability or possibility, slightly less formal than "may".

could be distributed

Expresses possibility or a hypothetical situation.

might be distributed

Similar to "may", but expresses a slightly lower probability.

is allowed to be distributed

Emphasizes permission or authorization.

is permitted to be distributed

Similar to "is allowed", but slightly more formal.

can be disseminated

Replaces "distributed" with a synonym implying wider spread.

can be allocated

Focuses on the act of assigning or allotting something.

is capable of being distributed

Highlights the inherent capability for distribution.

has the potential to be distributed

Emphasizes the possibility or future prospect of distribution.

is liable to be distributed

Suggests a tendency or likelihood of distribution.

FAQs

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

Use "may be distributed" to indicate that something is permitted or likely to be shared or allocated. For instance, "The handouts "may be distributed" after the presentation."

What's a more informal way to say "may be distributed"?

Informally, you could say "can be shared", "can be handed out", or "can be given away" instead of ""may be distributed"".

Is "may be distributed" formal or informal?

The phrase ""may be distributed"" leans towards the formal side. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives are generally preferred.

What is the difference between "may be distributed" and "should be distributed"?

"May be distributed" indicates permission or possibility, whereas "should be distributed" implies a recommendation or obligation.