may be performed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be performed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that an action is possible or allowed to be carried out under certain conditions. Example: "The procedure may be performed by a qualified technician to ensure safety and compliance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

An endometrial biopsy may be performed to check for cancer.

The New York Times - Health

Surgery may be performed if seizures are uncontrolled by medication.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Further testing may be performed in an audiometry laboratory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tantric Yoga may be performed during sexual intercourse or independently.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Chinese, Jataka, or Khmer stories may be performed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This suggests that tests to check compatibility may be performed before the execution.

The Guardian

Rituals may be performed as a healing or to bring love, success or insight into one's life.

The New York Times

"Socrate" has simple dynamics, restrained orchestration (indeed, it may be performed by one piano), and a narrow vocal range.

The New Yorker

Because Mormons have a lay priesthood, baptisms may be performed by any man who holds the requisite priesthood rank.

The New York Times

For one thing, tests may be performed for various purposes, requiring various levels of expertise and equipment.

The New York Times

The test may be performed in an interactive way.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may be performed", ensure the context clearly indicates the conditions or factors that determine whether the action will actually occur. Specify who or what is responsible for performing the action to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "may be performed" is grammatically sound, overuse of the passive voice can make writing seem indirect and less engaging. Where appropriate, consider using active voice constructions for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

"May be performed" functions as a modal verb phrase in the passive voice. It indicates that an action is potentially carried out, subject to certain conditions or permissions. Ludwig's examples showcase diverse applications across scientific, medical, and general contexts, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may be performed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate that an action is possible, permissible, or contingent upon certain conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted in written English. It is commonly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, reflecting a neutral to formal register. While correct, writers should be mindful of potential overuse of the passive voice. Alternatives like "can be carried out" or "might be undertaken" offer subtle shifts in meaning depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be carried out

Emphasizes the possibility of execution or completion, often implying a procedural aspect.

could be executed

Highlights the potential for execution, suggesting a degree of uncertainty or conditionality.

might be undertaken

Suggests a tentative or exploratory approach to a task or activity.

is able to be conducted

Focuses on the ability or capacity to perform something, stressing the resources or skills available.

is liable to be implemented

Indicates a higher probability or likelihood of something being put into effect.

is subject to being enacted

Implies that something is under consideration and may be formalized or put into action.

has the potential to be realized

Emphasizes the inherent possibility of something being brought to fruition.

is eligible to be effected

Highlights that something meets the necessary requirements or qualifications for execution.

is permitted to transpire

Emphasizes permission or authorization for an event to occur.

is authorized to take place

Focuses on the official approval or sanctioning of an event or action.

FAQs

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

Use "may be performed" to indicate that an action is possible or permissible, often depending on specific conditions. For example, "The experiment "may be performed" under controlled conditions".

What are some alternatives to "may be performed"?

Alternatives include "can be carried out", "could be executed", or "might be undertaken", depending on the nuance you want to convey. Each alternative subtly shifts the emphasis on possibility or permission.

Which is correct: "may be performed" or "can be performed"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "may be performed" often implies permission or possibility depending on circumstances, while "can be performed" usually indicates ability or capacity. Choose the one that best fits the intended meaning.

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

"May be performed" suggests a possibility, while "will be performed" indicates a certainty. The first is conditional, the second is definitive.