may be on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a possibility or uncertainty regarding a location, status, or condition. Example: "The package may be on the way to your address, but I cannot confirm it yet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The battle may be on again.

The New York Times

"They may be on oxygen.

The New York Times

And so it may be, on occasion.

The Economist

Momentum may be on the forecasts' side.

The New York Times

He may be on to something good.

The New York Times

ReprintsIt may be on to something.

The Economist

Yet, reinforcements may be on the way.

The New York Times - Sports

But relief may be on its way.

The Economist

But help may be on the way.

The New York Times

Help may be on the way.

The New York Times - Sports

He may be on to something.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may be on" to express uncertainty about the current status or future occurrence of something. Ensure the context clearly indicates what "may be on", such as "may be on the way" or "may be on schedule".

Common error

Avoid using "may be on" when "may be in" or "may be at" is more appropriate. "May be on" typically implies movement or a surface, not a static location or state. For example, say "the meeting may be on Tuesday" instead of "the meeting may be at Tuesday".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be on" functions as an auxiliary phrase indicating a degree of possibility or likelihood. It's commonly used to suggest that something is potentially happening or in a specific state, without certainty. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "may be on" is a versatile expression used to indicate possibility or likelihood. It's grammatically sound and commonly found in various contexts, particularly in news and media. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Analysis reveals that the phrase functions primarily to convey uncertainty or speculation. While applicable across different registers, it maintains a generally neutral tone. Ludwig examples highlight its frequent use in expressing potential actions, schedules, or states. Understanding the proper context, particularly regarding preposition usage, is key to employing "may be on" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be happening

Emphasizes the potential for an event to occur.

might be in progress

Highlights that something is possibly unfolding currently.

is potentially in the works

Suggests that plans or preparations are underway.

could be in preparation

Highlights that something is in the process of being made ready.

is possibly scheduled

Indicates a tentative arrangement.

is tentatively slated

Suggests that something is planned but not yet finalized.

is perhaps imminent

Implies that something is likely to occur very soon.

is anticipated to commence

Implies that something is expected to begin.

is rumored to be approaching

Suggests an event or situation is coming based on unofficial information.

is speculated to be developing

Indicates that there is uncertain or unconfirmed progress.

FAQs

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

Use "may be on" to express a possibility or expectation. For example, "The package "may be on the way"", or "The event "may be on schedule"".

What does "may be on to something" mean?

"May be on to something" indicates that someone might have discovered something important or be pursuing a promising idea. For example, "He "may be on to something" with his new invention".

Are there alternatives to saying "may be on the way"?

Yes, alternatives include "might be coming", "could be arriving", or "is possibly en route" depending on the context.

Is "may be on" formal or informal?

"May be on" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The specific tone depends more on the surrounding language and situation.