may be postponed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be postponed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that could be delayed. For example, "The launch of the new product may be postponed due to production delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The bogus referendums on the independence of eastern parts of Ukraine may be postponed and a presidential election on May 25th may go ahead.

The Economist

Sharif said elections may be postponed.

The Guardian

"The debate may be postponed for a year.

The New York Times

Some now privately suggest the talks may be postponed.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Tuesday's long-scheduled announcement may be postponed, officials warned.

The New York Times

An analysts' meeting had been scheduled for next Friday, but it may be postponed.

The New York Times

Thus definitive optimization studies may be postponed until the system is better understood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Its desire for an ever looser union may be postponed but cannot be avoided.

The Economist

Saving for the children's college educations may be postponed because money earmarked for them may have to be diverted to the campaign or living expenses.

The New York Times

In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks this week, some events listed in the Weekend guides may be postponed or canceled, and museum hours may vary.

The New York Times

Redrawing legislative district lines could be so complicated that next year's primaries may be postponed to September from June, Assembly Speaker Jack Collins said yesterday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may be postponed" when you want to express a possibility, not a certainty, that an event or action will be delayed. This phrasing leaves room for the event to still occur as originally planned.

Common error

Avoid using "may be postponed" when you are certain the event will not occur as scheduled. In cases of certainty, use phrases like "has been postponed" or "is cancelled" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be postponed" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a possibility or uncertainty about a future event. It suggests that a scheduled activity might be delayed but hasn't been confirmed. As Ludwig highlights, this phrasing accurately conveys a state of potential deferment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may be postponed" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate the possibility of an event's delay. As Ludwig confirms, its primary function is to inform about potential rescheduling without asserting certainty. It's frequently found in news and media, science, and encyclopedic contexts and is suitable for neutral communication. When using the phrase, be mindful of distinguishing it from phrases indicating certainty, such as "will be postponed". It is important to consider the best practices when using "may be postponed" and avoid the common errors in order to ensure the audience can grasp your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be put on hold

Suggests a temporary suspension of the event or action.

could be delayed

Emphasizes the possibility of a delay due to external factors or circumstances.

can be rescheduled

Focuses on the act of assigning a new time or date.

is able to be delayed

Highlights possibility to delay something for some time.

might be deferred

Suggests a formal or official postponement to a later time.

is capable of being deferred

Indicates the existence of a capacity or option to postpone.

is subject to rescheduling

Highlights the conditionality of the event and its potential for being rescheduled.

is liable to be adjourned

Implies a temporary suspension of proceedings, often in a formal setting.

is open to being put off

Indicates that the decision to postpone is still under consideration.

is eligible for deferment

Highlights the fulfillment of criteria for a potential postponement.

FAQs

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

Use "may be postponed" to indicate a possibility of delay. For example, "The meeting "may be postponed" due to unforeseen circumstances."

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

"May be postponed" indicates a possibility, while "will be postponed" indicates a certainty. "The game "may be postponed" due to weather" means it's possible. "The game "will be postponed"" means it's definite.

What are some alternatives to "may be postponed"?

Alternatives include "could be delayed", "might be deferred", or "is subject to rescheduling". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "may be postponed"?

It's appropriate to use "may be postponed" when there is a reasonable chance that an event or activity will be delayed, but the decision is not yet final. This phrasing is suitable for announcements, updates, or discussions where uncertainty exists.