may be indicated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be indicated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something is possible or likely to be shown or pointed out in a certain context. Example: "In the report, the areas for improvement may be indicated by the data analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Additional examinations may be indicated, especially in patients with compromised sinus clearance.

Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology

Eight or more vaccines may be indicated for adults in the United States.

Vaccine

Beta-blocking agents may be indicated to prevent cardiovascular complications and may shorten seizure duration.

British Journal of Anaesthesia

As in all joints, its prosthetic replacement may be indicated in selected cases.

Revue de Stomatologie, de Chirurgie Maxillo-faciale et de Chirurgie Orale

In the symbol representing a particular nuclear or atomic species, the atomic number may be indicated as a left subscript.

Britannica

NOTE: Airline food may be indicated as an effective treatment modality.

The New York Times

The pronunciation of kanji symbols may be indicated as well by hiragana script.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Additionally, electrophysiology testing may be indicated if cardiopulmonary events occur which are not explained by anatomic defects.

Stanford University

If physiotherapy fails, endoscopic surgical release may be indicated.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Examination and intervention of the hip may be indicated in patients with knee OA.

Duke University

Other studies may be indicated based on imaging findings, and patient, stone and clinical factors.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may be indicated", ensure the context clearly specifies who or what would suggest or benefit from the action or condition being indicated.

Common error

Avoid using "may be indicated" when a stronger, more definitive statement is appropriate. Overusing this phrase can weaken your writing and create unnecessary ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be indicated" functions as a modal verb phrase used to express possibility or suggestion. Based on Ludwig, it suggests that something is potentially appropriate or necessary under certain conditions, without stating it as a certainty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

Academia

20%

News & Media

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be indicated" is a grammatically sound and frequently used modal verb phrase, particularly in scientific and academic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage for expressing possibility or suggesting potential actions. While versatile, ensure its use aligns with the desired level of certainty and formality, avoiding overuse in situations requiring more definitive language. Consider replacing it with "might be necessary" or could be appropriate to adjust the tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be necessary

Suggests a degree of need or requirement that is slightly stronger than a simple indication.

could be appropriate

Emphasizes the suitability of something in a particular context.

might be advisable

Highlights the recommended nature of an action or treatment.

could be considered

Implies that something is worthy of thought and evaluation.

might be suggested

Indicates a potential course of action without asserting its necessity.

could be warranted

Suggests a justification or sufficient reason for a particular action.

might be required

Indicates a need that is somewhat less flexible than "may be indicated".

could be useful

Focuses on the potential benefit or utility of something.

might be helpful

Suggests that something could provide assistance or aid.

could be tried

Emphasizes the possibility of testing or experimenting with something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "may be indicated" to sound more assertive?

For a more assertive tone, consider using phrases like "is necessary", "is required", or "should be considered". The choice depends on the specific context and the degree of certainty you wish to convey.

What does "may be indicated" mean in a medical context?

In medicine, "may be indicated" suggests that a particular treatment, test, or procedure might be appropriate based on the patient's condition, but further evaluation is needed to confirm its necessity.

Is "may be indicated" formal or informal language?

"May be indicated" is generally considered formal and suitable for academic, scientific, or professional writing. In more casual contexts, simpler alternatives like "might help" or "could work" may be more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "may be indicated" that still convey uncertainty?

Alternatives that retain a sense of uncertainty include "might be suggested", "could be appropriate", or "might be advisable", depending on the specific nuance you want to express.