may live

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may live" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a possibility or permission regarding someone's existence or residence. Example: "In the future, humans may live on Mars if the technology allows it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

May we listen, so we may live.

HuffPost

That others may live.

The New York Times

They may live several decades.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They may live 60 years.

Britannica

But its memory may live on.

The Economist

These hardy birds may live 35 years.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They may live at home longer.

The New York Times

Females may live more than 11/2 years.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Okapis may live as long as 20 30 years.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Family members may live far away.

The New York Times - Health

Then we may live peacefully and contentedly".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the lifespan of organisms, use "may live" to indicate potential longevity based on typical conditions or captive environments.

Common error

Avoid using "might lived" or "may lived"; the correct form is "may live", using the base form of the verb after the modal verb.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may live" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating a possibility or potential. It suggests that something has the ability or likelihood to exist, reside, or continue to exist. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

24%

News & Media

43%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may live" is a versatile phrase used to express possibility or potential regarding life, residence, or duration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, from scientific discussions to everyday conversations. While suitable alternatives like "might survive" or "could reside" exist, "may live" remains a clear and widely accepted choice. Remember to use the base form of the verb after "may" to avoid common grammatical errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might survive

Focuses on the possibility of survival rather than simply existing.

could reside

Emphasizes the potential location or dwelling place.

might exist

Highlights the potential for existence, often in a specific state or condition.

potentially inhabit

Suggests the possibility of occupying or living in a specific place or environment.

could last

Focuses on the duration or continuation of life or existence.

possibly dwell

Similar to reside, but with a slightly more formal or archaic tone.

may endure

Emphasizes the ability to withstand hardship and continue living.

can remain

Highlights the ability to stay or continue in a particular state or location.

perhaps thrive

Suggests a potential for success and flourishing in life.

chance of living

Expresses the probability of being alive or continuing to live.

FAQs

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

"May live" expresses a possibility. For example: "Some turtles "may live" over 100 years".

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

In formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "might survive" or "could reside", depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey.

Is "may live" appropriate for scientific writing?

Yes, "may live" is suitable for scientific writing when discussing potential lifespans or habitats. For example, "This species "may live" in deep ocean trenches".

What is the difference between "may live" and "will live"?

"May live" indicates a possibility or uncertainty, while "will live" expresses a greater degree of certainty or prediction. "They "may live" longer than expected" suggests uncertainty, while "They "will live" in this house" implies a definite plan.