may count

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'may count' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when expressing the possibility that something may be considered or included in a total, as in the sentence: We may count the points earned from bonus activities towards the total score.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One day, merit may count for more.

The Economist

And external events may count too.

The Guardian - Opinion

The shame factor may count for something with educational officials.

The New York Times - Arts

Ostentatious shows of wealth may count against him, however.

The Guardian

That's why this year's rankings may count more than normal.

The New York Times

His moderation may count against him with the party faithful.

The Economist

But logic, alas, may count for less than political grievance.

The Economist

That may count as the high point of the season.

The New York Times - Sports

Familiarity and constituent service may count for more than ideology.

The New York Times

Against this Oakland staff, that's all the Yankees may count on.

The New York Times - Sports

In truth, the generational shift may count for more than the ideological shift.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may count", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being considered and towards what total or outcome. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the sentence's meaning.

Common error

While "may count" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in highly formal writing where more precise alternatives like "could be considered" or "might be included" might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may count" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating a possibility or potential for something to be considered or included. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may count" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates a possibility or potential for something to be considered. Ludwig AI examples confirm its prevalent use across various domains, including News & Media and Science. While its register is generally neutral, more formal alternatives might be preferable in certain contexts. Common errors include overuse in overly formal settings, where phrases such as ""could be considered"" might be more appropriate. Remember to ensure clarity when using "may count" to avoid ambiguity and effectively convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be considered

Emphasizes the possibility of something being taken into account.

might be included

Highlights the potential for something to be part of a larger whole.

could factor in

Focuses on the potential impact or influence of something.

might contribute

Suggests a possible contribution to a final result.

could play a role

Emphasizes the potential involvement or function of something.

might have an effect

Highlights the possible influence or impact of something.

could be relevant

Focuses on the potential importance or applicability of something.

might prove significant

Suggests the possibility of something turning out to be important.

could carry weight

Emphasizes the potential importance or influence of something.

might hold value

Highlights the potential worth or importance of something.

FAQs

How can I use "may count" in a sentence?

You can use "may count" to express the possibility that something will be considered or included in a final calculation or assessment. For example, "Bonus points "could be considered" towards the final grade".

What's a more formal alternative to "may count"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "could be considered", "might be included", or "could factor in" to convey a similar meaning with a more refined tone.

Is it always appropriate to use "may count"?

While generally acceptable, "may count" might be less suitable in highly technical or legal writing where precision is paramount. Evaluate whether a more specific alternative would better serve the context.

How does "may count" differ from "will count"?

"May count" indicates a possibility or potential, while "will count" expresses certainty. Using "may" suggests the outcome is not yet determined, unlike "will", which confirms the inclusion or consideration.