may nevertheless be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may nevertheless be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is possible or true despite other circumstances or conditions. Example: "The results of the experiment may nevertheless be valid, even with the unexpected variables."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Reference

Social Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Although Algeria has not figured in France's presidential campaign, the dispute over policy toward the African nation may nevertheless be decided in the May elections.

Los Angeles Times

The PRD's demand may nevertheless be met.

The Economist

Three main areas of marine life may nevertheless be recognized.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet, given the low cost per pupil, it may nevertheless be a programme worth pursuing.

The Guardian

Yet behind the rhetorical flatulence, something interesting may nevertheless be happening.

The Guardian - Opinion

Gene exchange may nevertheless be inhibited because the offspring are poorly viable or sterile.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Putting aside theology and what looks like a misogynist streak, these warnings may nevertheless be worth attention.

The Guardian - Books

There may nevertheless be some risk for Mr. Obama — but he'll face less of a moving target.

The New York Times

If the shooting was no big deal, its aftermath may nevertheless be said to have shed light on that favorite of Republicans, the character issue.

The New Yorker

Although technology may be rare in the universe, its effects may nevertheless be easier to detect from a distance than biological ones.

The New York Times - Science

The Constitution makes clear that an official who is tried by the Senate may nevertheless be subject to "indictment, trial, judgment, and punishment" in an ordinary criminal court.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may nevertheless be" to introduce a contrasting idea or possibility, even when an initial condition might suggest otherwise.

Common error

Avoid using "may nevertheless be" in simple sentences where a direct contrast can be expressed more concisely. For instance, instead of "It is raining, but the game may nevertheless be played", consider "Despite the rain, the game may still be played."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may nevertheless be" functions as a modal adjunct, combining a modal verb ("may") expressing possibility with an adverb ("nevertheless") indicating concession or contrast. This creates a nuanced expression where something is considered possible despite an apparent obstacle. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

30%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may nevertheless be" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a possibility that exists despite a conflicting circumstance. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and common in diverse writing contexts. It functions as a modal adjunct, softening contradictions and adding nuance. To ensure effective communication, keep in mind to use it for contrastive ideas. Consider "might nonetheless be" or "could still be" as alternatives based on the intent and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might nonetheless be

Replaces "may" with "might" for a slightly weaker possibility and keeps "nevertheless" for concession.

could still be

Uses "could" to indicate possibility and "still" to show continuation despite obstacles.

might yet be

Replaces "nevertheless" with "yet" to show something is still possible despite challenges.

may however be

Substitutes "nevertheless" with "however" to introduce a contrast or exception.

can still be

Employs "can" to express possibility and "still" to emphasize continuation.

may even be

Uses "even" to emphasize the unexpected nature of the possibility.

may in any case be

Adds "in any case" to indicate that something is true regardless of other circumstances.

may just be

Employs "just" to express a slight possibility or chance.

may actually be

Uses "actually" to emphasize the reality or truth of the possibility.

may conceivably be

Adds "conceivably" to indicate that something is imaginable or possible.

FAQs

What does "may nevertheless be" mean?

The phrase "may nevertheless be" indicates that something is possible or true despite a conflicting or opposing condition. It suggests a concession, acknowledging a potential obstacle but asserting a possibility nonetheless.

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

You can use "may nevertheless be" to introduce a contrasting idea or possibility. For example, "The task is difficult, but it "may nevertheless be" completed with dedication."

What are some alternatives to "may nevertheless be"?

Alternatives include "might nonetheless be", "could still be", "might yet be", or "may however be". The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "may nevertheless be" and "may still be"?

While both express possibility, "may nevertheless be" implies a stronger sense of contrast or concession than "may still be". "May nevertheless be" acknowledges an obstacle, while "may still be" simply indicates continuation.