may be fined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be fined" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that someone could face a monetary penalty for a specific action or violation. Example: "If you fail to comply with the regulations, you may be fined for your negligence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Those without kits may be fined €17.

The Guardian - Travel

II may be fined up to $500 for each offense.

Cornell University

Businesses may be fined $250, more for multiple violations.

The New York Times

If convicted, you may be fined not more than $100,000 under 18 U.S.C. 3571.

Cornell University

Student organizations may be fined for late filing, or lack of filing an Event Registration Form.

Cornell University

Individuals caught lighting up in the wrong place may be fined 10 yuan ($1.40).

The Economist

Donors or campaigns who "knowingly and willfully" breach this rule may be fined or prosecuted.

The Guardian

The amount in euros you may be fined if caught relieving yourself in public.

The Guardian

The mahram may be fined or could be subjected to lashes.

The Guardian

An owner may be fined $100 per day; repeat offenders may have outdoor furniture seized.

The New York Times

Universities are also anxious not to over-recruit, because they may be fined.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may be fined", clearly state the specific action or inaction that could lead to the fine to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "may be fined" without specifying the context or the specific violation. Always provide clarity on what actions could result in a fine to ensure the statement is actionable and understandable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be fined" functions as a passive modal construction, indicating a possibility or likelihood of receiving a monetary penalty. It's typically used in legal or regulatory contexts to describe potential consequences for specific actions or omissions. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is appropriate for use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "may be fined" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the possibility of incurring a monetary penalty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in legal, regulatory, and formal contexts. While alternatives like "could be penalized" or "might face a sanction" exist, "may be fined" clearly conveys the potential for financial repercussions. It's crucial to use this phrase with specificity, clearly outlining the actions that could lead to a fine. Given its prevalence in news, academic, and encyclopedic sources, its formality is evident. This makes it suitable for professional and neutral communications, ensuring clarity and impact when discussing potential penalties.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be penalized

This alternative suggests a possibility of facing a penalty, similar to "may be fined" but uses a different verb.

might be sanctioned

This option implies a formal disapproval or penalty, often in a legal or regulatory context.

could incur a penalty

This phrase directly mentions incurring a penalty, focusing on the action of receiving a punishment.

risk a penalty

This alternative emphasizes the risk or chance of receiving a penalty.

are subject to a fine

This phrase indicates a liability to receive a fine, highlighting the legal obligation.

face a potential fine

This option points out the potential or possibility of being fined.

are liable for a fine

This alternative stresses the legal responsibility for paying a fine.

are at risk of being fined

This phrase highlights the vulnerability to being fined, implying a higher likelihood.

are susceptible to a fine

This suggests an increased likelihood of being fined due to certain conditions or actions.

may face prosecution

This alternative presents a different type of consequence, focusing on potential legal action instead of just a fine.

FAQs

What does "may be fined" mean?

The phrase "may be fined" indicates that there is a possibility of receiving a monetary penalty for a specific action or failure to act. It suggests a potential consequence, often within a legal or regulatory context.

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

You can use alternatives like "could be penalized", "might be sanctioned", or "could incur a penalty", depending on the context.

Is "may be fined" formal or informal?

"May be fined" is generally considered a formal phrase, often used in legal, regulatory, or official contexts. It's less common in casual conversation.

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

Use "may be fined" to indicate the possibility of a monetary penalty as a consequence of a specific action. For example, "Individuals who discriminate may be fined, though such decisions are subject to review in the U.S. Court of Appeals."