may so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may so" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is not commonly used and may lead to confusion in communication. Example: "If you may so choose, you can proceed with the plan." (This example is awkward and unclear.)

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

If America walks away from that agreement, as now it may, so can others.

The Economist

The hardship may so far be mild compared with previous downturns in the 1970s and 1980s.

The Economist

Hogan-Howe said more stop and search may also be used, as may so called "section 60" powers allowing stops without an officer needing reasonable suspicion.

The Guardian

When the performance ends, you may so share their claustrophobia that you wind up gratefully gulping down air as soon as you hit the sidewalk.

The New York Times

But it may so happen that the scientist has no opinion whatsoever about the hypotheses.

SEP

Sometimes it may so happen that the last preference of one method becomes the first choice of some other method.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

…my wonder dwells not so much on Natures Clocks (is I may so speak) as on her Watches".

SEP

It may so happen that during all of that you forget to pay your taxes.

Vice

What are the mechanism(s) through which microgravity may so profoundly modify cell function and structure?

BioMed Research International

DMBA initiated carcinogenesis may so be used as suitable model to study the chemopreventive potential of compounds.

BioMed Research International

AGE accumulation is a measure of cumulative metabolic and oxidative stress, and may so represent the "metabolic memory".

Cardiovascular Diabetology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When indicating possibility, prefer using standard constructions like "may well", "might", or "could" to ensure clarity and grammatical correctness. For example, instead of "America may so walk away", write "America may well walk away".

Common error

Avoid using "may so" to add emphasis or formality, as it's not a recognized or effective construction in English. Using correct alternatives like "certainly might" or restructuring the sentence will enhance clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may so" functions as a modal phrase attempting to express possibility or potential. However, according to Ludwig AI, it is not considered grammatically correct in standard English. Its intended function is often better served by other modal phrases or adverbs.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "may so" appears in various sources, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect and not standard English. Its intended purpose is to express possibility, but there are more effective and accepted ways to convey this meaning. It's best to opt for alternatives like "might as well", "could possibly", or rephrase the sentence for clarity. Given its grammatical issues and the availability of better options, it is recommended to avoid the phrase "may so" in both formal and informal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might as well

Expresses a suggestion to do something because there is no better alternative or reason not to.

could possibly

Indicates a possibility or potential for something to happen.

it is possible that

Formally introduces a possibility or potential scenario.

it might happen

Simply states that an event could occur.

it is conceivable

Highlights the idea that something is imaginable or believable.

conceivably

Expresses that something is within the realm of possibility or imagination.

it could be the case

Introduces a potential state or situation.

this may occur

Formally notes that an event has the potential to take place.

that could transpire

Suggests that something might come to pass or occur.

it is liable to

Indicates that something is likely or prone to happen.

FAQs

How can I properly use "may" to express possibility?

Use "may" with an adverb like "well" or "easily" (e.g., "It may well happen") or use it directly with a verb (e.g., "It may rain"). Avoid using "may so", as it is not grammatically correct.

What are some alternatives to "may so" that sound more natural?

Consider using phrases like "might as well", "could possibly", or "it is possible that" depending on the context.

Is "may so" considered formal or informal English?

Although it appears in some published sources, "may so" is generally considered grammatically incorrect and should be avoided in both formal and informal writing. It does not add emphasis or formality.

What's the difference between "may well" and the phrase "may so"?

"May well" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a strong possibility or likelihood, while "may so" is generally considered incorrect and does not convey a clear meaning. Use "may well" to suggest something is probable.