may include

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may include" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to suggest that something may or may not be included in a certain category of things. For example, "The meal may include a side dish such as mashed potatoes or green beans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These may include speedier privatisations.

The Economist

Side effects may include heartburn.

The New York Times

That may include its architect.

The Economist

May include Carly Rae Jepsen.

The Guardian - Sport

It may include biometric data too.

The Economist

Penalties may include fines or other enforcement.

The New York Times

May include aerobics, muscle strengthening, postural control.

Independent

Treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Some sellers may include cars and furniture".

The New York Times

This may include subscriptions to professional bodies.

The Guardian - Money

But the truth may include both".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may include", ensure that the items you list are genuinely possible, but not guaranteed. This conveys uncertainty accurately.

Common error

Avoid using "may include" when you actually mean "will include". "May include" indicates a possibility, not a certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may include" functions as a hedge, indicating a possibility or potentiality rather than a definitive inclusion. It introduces elements that are possibly part of a larger set or category.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

31%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may include" is a versatile phrase used to express the possibility of something being part of a larger set or category. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. When using "may include", it's important to convey uncertainty and potentiality rather than certainty. Consider using alternatives like "might encompass" or "could involve" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using it when certainty is required, and always ensure that the listed items are genuinely possible. The frequent and consistent use of this phrase across diverse sources solidifies its reliability in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might encompass

Similar to "can encompass" but retains the element of possibility, as in "may include".

can encompass

Replaces "may include" with a stronger sense of containing or covering a broader range.

might consist of

Indicates the components or elements that could make up something.

might be composed of

Similar to "can be comprised of" but with a slightly more formal tone.

could involve

Focuses on implication or consequence rather than direct inclusion.

can be comprised of

Expresses the potential makeup of something.

might feature

Suggests a prominent or noticeable inclusion.

might extend to

Suggests that something could reach or encompass additional elements.

can potentially comprise

A more formal alternative, indicating the potential for something to be part of a whole.

can entail

Focuses on what something necessarily involves or implies.

FAQs

What does "may include" mean?

The phrase "may include" indicates that something is possible, but not certain, to be part of a larger group or category. It implies a degree of uncertainty or optionality.

How to use "may include" in a sentence?

Use "may include" to list potential, but not guaranteed, components or features. For example, "The software package "might include" a word processor and a spreadsheet program."

What are some alternatives to "may include"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "might feature", "could involve", or "can encompass".

When is it appropriate to use "may include" instead of "includes"?

Use "may include" when there is uncertainty or optionality about the inclusion of certain items. Use "includes" when you are stating a definitive list of components.