may be modified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be modified" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is subject to change or alteration. Example: "The terms of the agreement may be modified based on the feedback received from both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Only primary loans may be modified.

The New York Times

Leaves or leaf parts may be modified to provide support.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the other parties will be tempted to hedge against the prospect that these assurances may be modified.

The New York Times

Indeed, the technology of crowdsourcing itself may be modified by psychologists' interest in it.

The Economist

The legs may be modified in various ways to serve specific functions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These may be modified to allow shares to continue trading, but only within pre-set bands.

The Economist

From what I hear the plan may be modified maybe even around the Durban meeting.

The New York Times

Photophores, light-emitting organs found especially in deep-sea forms, may be modified mucous glands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The legs may be modified for leaping, burrowing, grasping prey, or swimming in various ways.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Gills may be platelike, feathery, or filamentous and may be modified for specialized functions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Heteropteran wings, especially the front pair, may be modified for specific functions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may be modified" to indicate that a plan, design, or agreement is not final and is subject to potential changes based on new information or circumstances.

Common error

While "may be modified" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Consider using active voice where appropriate for a more direct and engaging style. For example, instead of "The rules may be modified by the committee", you could write "The committee may modify the rules".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be modified" functions as a passive verb phrase expressing possibility or potential. It is used to indicate that something is subject to change or alteration. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

19%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be modified" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase that indicates the potential for change or alteration. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various domains, particularly in science and news. While it's generally appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, writers should be mindful of overuse of the passive voice and consider active alternatives where suitable. Related phrases include "can be altered" and "might be changed", each offering a slightly different nuance. This guide offers practical tips for effective usage and error avoidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be altered

Indicates a possibility of change, with a slightly stronger sense of capability than the original phrase.

might be changed

Suggests a possibility of change, placing more emphasis on uncertainty about if the change will occur.

could be adjusted

Implies a slight alteration for improvement or adaptation to specific requirements.

can be adapted

Focuses on the ability to change in order to fit new conditions or purposes.

is subject to revision

Highlights the formal or official nature of a change process, often in documents or agreements.

is liable to amendment

Emphasizes the potential for formal or legal changes, often in policy or regulations.

is open to correction

Indicates a willingness to rectify errors or inaccuracies, highlighting a process of refinement.

is susceptible to transformation

Highlights a deeper or more fundamental change, suggesting a complete alteration in form or nature.

is prone to alteration

Suggests a high likelihood or tendency for change to occur, often due to external factors or inherent instability.

is subject to variation

Emphasizes the potential for fluctuating or differing states, highlighting a range of possibilities.

FAQs

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

You can use "may be modified" to indicate that something is subject to potential change or alteration. For instance, "The project timeline "may be modified" based on resource availability".

What are some alternatives to "may be modified"?

Alternatives include "can be altered", "might be changed", or "could be adjusted", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "may be modified" formal or informal?

"May be modified" is generally considered neutral to formal. It is suitable for use in professional, academic, and news contexts.

What's the difference between "may be modified" and "will be modified"?

"May be modified" indicates a possibility or potential for change, whereas "will be modified" indicates a definite intention or plan for change. The former suggests uncertainty, while the latter suggests certainty.