may be inferred

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be inferred" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that a conclusion or understanding can be drawn from the information provided. Example: "From the data presented, it may be inferred that the new marketing strategy has significantly increased sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Intent not to resume may be inferred from circumstances.

Cornell University

But from other rules it may be inferred that the general counsel is an appropriate addressee.

Cornell University

Limits of sensitivity of the scattering technique may be inferred from this.

Combustion and Flame

Hence, it may be inferred that the system incorporated with LiCF3SO3 dissociated more readily than LiCH3COO.

Electrochimica Acta

However, palaeoenvironmental information may be inferred from ancient termite mounds of the region.

Quaternary Research

Design limitations to the plant's responsiveness may be inferred by analysis of the active constraints.

Journal of Process Control

It may be inferred from numerous examples that hunting cultures frequently coexisted and interacted with agricultural and pastoral communities.

Britannica

Still, sometimes something may be inferred even from a knife-edge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Additionally, differential browsing height may be inferred by an examination of the back of the skulls of Camarasaurus and Diplodocus.

University of California, Berkeley

Now he says things like "Controversy is a good thing when it gets people thinking and talking," in which "and buying books" may be inferred.

The Guardian - Opinion

This much may be inferred from the introduction, in which the editors remark that "since the late 1990s her writing has been internationally celebrated and her reputation revived.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, make sure that what "may be inferred" is clearly supported by the preceding statements or data to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "may be inferred" when the conclusion is directly stated or overwhelmingly obvious. Reserve it for situations where interpretation is genuinely required, not for restating the obvious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be inferred" functions as a modal verb construction indicating the possibility of drawing a conclusion from given information. As Ludwig AI shows, it introduces an inference rather than a direct statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

Academia

20%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be inferred" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, indicating that a conclusion can be drawn from the available information, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is particularly common in scientific, academic, and journalistic writing, where precision and objectivity are paramount. The phrase implies a degree of uncertainty or interpretation, making it suitable for suggesting possibilities rather than stating absolute facts. Related phrases, such as "can be deduced" or "it suggests that", offer similar meanings with varying nuances. When using "may be inferred", ensure that the conclusion is logically supported by the preceding statements or data to maintain clarity and avoid overstating the inference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be deduced

Implies a logical conclusion based on direct evidence.

can be concluded

Suggests a judgement reached after considering the evidence.

can be assumed

Indicates something is taken for granted without concrete proof.

it follows that

Introduces a logical consequence or result.

it suggests that

Points towards an idea or possibility without definitive proof.

it indicates that

Highlights a sign or signal pointing to a particular fact.

one can gather

Emphasizes the act of collecting information to form a conclusion.

one might surmise

Suggests a conjecture based on limited information.

it would appear that

Indicates a conclusion based on observed circumstances.

this implies that

Shows a connection where one thing suggests another.

FAQs

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

Use "may be inferred" to suggest a conclusion based on the available information, like: "From the data, it "may be inferred" that sales increased."

What is a good alternative to "may be inferred"?

Alternatives include "can be deduced", "can be concluded", or "can be assumed", depending on the strength of the evidence and the nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "may be inferred" and "can be inferred"?

"May be inferred" suggests a possibility or likelihood, while "can be inferred" implies a stronger certainty or ability to draw a conclusion based on the evidence.

Is it appropriate to use "may be inferred" in formal writing?

Yes, "may be inferred" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic, scientific, or business contexts, where it's important to present conclusions with appropriate caution and precision.