may be used

USAGE SUMMARY

'may be used' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express a possibility or a potential outcome. For example: "The new technology may be used to improve efficiency in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In emergencies, cellphones may be used.

The New York Times - Sports

Compensation incentives may be used.

Harvard University

Their secrets may be used against them.

The Guardian

§ 418.2 How Project water may be used.

Cornell University

§ 713.4 What bond forms may be used?

Cornell University

What bond forms may be used?

Cornell University

The graphic logo may be used alone.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A stack of files may be used.

Harvard University

The same nest may be used repeatedly.

Cornell University

No other application form may be used.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A single stationary chair may be used.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical documentation, specify under what conditions the subject "may be used". Be specific about the context or criteria for usage.

Common error

Avoid using "may be used" when a more direct verb would be clearer and more concise. Overuse can make your writing sound passive and less impactful. Consider if "can be used", "is used", or a more specific verb would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be used" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating possibility, permission, or contingency. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples show its use across various contexts to express potential or allowed actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

34%

Science

22%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "may be used" is a versatile modal verb phrase indicating possibility or permission. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability across various contexts. It's frequently found in news, academic writing, and scientific publications. When employing this phrase, ensure it accurately conveys the intended level of optionality or contingency, and avoid overuse in place of more direct and impactful verbs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be utilized

Implies capability or permission for use, similar to "may be used".

could be employed

Suggests a potential for use, offering a slightly more formal tone.

might be implemented

Focuses on the possibility of putting something into effect or use.

is potentially applicable

Highlights the relevance or suitability for a particular purpose.

can be leveraged

Suggests using something to gain an advantage or achieve a desired outcome.

is able to be deployed

Emphasizes the readiness and availability for use or action.

is permitted for utilization

Highlights the authorized or allowed nature of using something.

is suitable for application

Focuses on the fitness or appropriateness for a specific use.

can be adopted

Suggests embracing or taking on something for use or implementation.

is susceptible to being employed

Emphasizes that something can be affected, influenced, or harmed, is passive.

FAQs

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

"May be used" indicates possibility or permission. For example, "This tool "may be used" for multiple purposes" or "The information "may be used" only with consent".

What are some alternatives to "may be used"?

Alternatives include "can be utilized", "could be employed", or "might be implemented", depending on the context. These provide similar meanings with slight variations in formality and emphasis.

Is there a difference between "may be used" and "can be used"?

"May be used" often implies permission or possibility, while "can be used" generally indicates capability or feasibility. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize allowance or inherent ability.

In what contexts is "may be used" most appropriate?

"May be used" is suitable in formal writing, instructions, or guidelines where you want to indicate that something is permissible but not mandatory. This includes academic papers, legal documents, and technical manuals.