may forfeit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may forfeit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where there is a possibility of losing something, typically a right or privilege, due to certain actions or conditions. Example: "If you fail to comply with the terms of the agreement, you may forfeit your right to a refund."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Similarly, deciding whether a CT scan is really needed may not be so simple; a woman who turns down the test may forfeit important diagnostic information.

The New York Times - Health

Even though Mr. Xi is almost certain to get the top leadership job, he may forfeit his chance if he makes a severe misstep.

The New York Times

Though all savers can go outside their home state for a 529 plan, they may forfeit in-state tax deductions if they do.

The New York Times

About 500 Peruvian players have submitted letters of resignation to that country's soccer federation, raising the possibility that Peru may forfeit its World Cup qualifying matches next month.

The New York Times

If they give the president a clear victory in the tax cut debate, they may forfeit any real chance to win either house of Congress in 2002.

The New York Times

Conservatives who disregard the mood of unease may forfeit their power to defend the more open and productive American economy they did so much to build.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

They may eventually forfeit the wriggle room.

The Guardian

You may possibly forfeit your deposit there if you are offered and accept admission from a college where you currently are wait-listed.

The New York Times

OF course, people who leave large companies may also forfeit many benefits and perks, like in-house gyms and child-care centers, not to mention more flexible hours.

The New York Times

Both versions of a recidivist premium should be distinguished from Duff's view that persistent dangerous offenders may effectively forfeit their right to be treated as equal citizens (ibid.: §4.2).

SEP

Moreover, once made, such commitments may be forfeited by the objects of loyalty should there be serious failure on their part, or they may be overridden in the face of significantly greater claims.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may forfeit" when you want to express a conditional possibility of losing a right, privilege, or possession. Ensure the condition leading to the potential forfeiture is clearly stated for clarity.

Common error

While "may forfeit" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very formal or legal writing where more precise terms like "shall be forfeited" might be preferred for clarity and enforceability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may forfeit" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a possibility or contingency. The modal verb 'may' expresses the chance of a future event (forfeiture) occurring, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

24%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Sport

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may forfeit" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that expresses the possibility of losing something, typically a right, privilege, or possession, due to a specific action or condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted in English writing. While it is generally neutral, it is essential to consider the context, as overly formal situations might benefit from more precise language. When writing, make sure to clarify the condition that leads to the potential forfeiture to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potentially forfeit

Adds emphasis to the possibility of forfeiture.

stand to forfeit

Emphasizes the potential for forfeiture based on current conditions.

could lose

Expresses a similar possibility of loss, but is more general.

risk losing

Highlights the risk involved in a potential loss.

might relinquish

Implies a more formal or deliberate act of giving something up.

possibly relinquish

Similar to 'might relinquish' but indicates more uncertainty about the action.

are liable to forfeit

Indicates a legal or contractual obligation that could lead to forfeiture.

are in danger of forfeiting

Highlights a higher level of threat connected with a possible loss

may surrender

Suggests giving up something, possibly under duress or by choice.

could sacrifice

Implies giving up something valuable, often for a greater cause.

FAQs

What does "may forfeit" mean?

"May forfeit" means there's a possibility of losing something, such as a right or privilege, usually as a consequence of not meeting certain conditions or breaking a rule.

What can I say instead of "may forfeit"?

You can use alternatives like "could lose", "might relinquish", or "risk losing" depending on the context.

Is "may forfeit" formal or informal?

"May forfeit" is generally considered neutral in tone and suitable for a variety of contexts, but in highly formal or legal settings, more precise language might be preferable.

How to use "may forfeit" in a sentence?

Example: If you do not pay your dues on time, you "may forfeit" your membership benefits.