may we continue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may we continue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to politely ask for permission to proceed with a discussion or activity. Example: "If everyone is ready, may we continue with the meeting agenda?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Long may we continue to be renowned for this virtue.

The Guardian

"May we continue to work together in our community and become enriched by our collaboration".

The Guardian

"May we continue this tomorrow?" Cruella said, "Yes, but you'd better come back," ominously adding, "I don't want to have to come looking for you".

The New York Times - Magazine

I am sad i missed your event.... Are you the long awaited Maitreya?" The day before the Shoucairs went to San Francisco, Ben had posted a comment on Patel's Facebook wall: "Maitreya is Raj Patel, Raj Patel is the ONE, God bless us all, may we continue to the path of Love, Light and virtue".

The New Yorker

To paraphrase a Korean proverb: May the words shared in this journal become the seeds of ever growing understanding, inspiration and co-operation between scholars in Europe and Asia and may we continue to create beneficial, sustainable and lasting change through exchange.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

May we continue to build the world we dream of.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Despite the challenges that these contracts may bring, we continue to put ourselves through it.

The Guardian

As amazing as the diversity of flies, beetles and moths may be, we continue to discover huge numbers of tiny wasps, many very host specific, that make their and other insects' lives unpredictable.

The Guardian

We may all "wither" if we continue the power politics that inevitably leads to war rather than law.

The New York Times

If we do, we may continue to lead the world in producing the most creative and innovative adult thinkers.

The New York Times

Although it may never influence policy nationally or internationally, and though we may continue to plunder until there is nothing left, the exhibition depicts where we began and how we got here.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may we continue" in writing, ensure the context supports the level of formality. It's best suited for professional emails, presentations, or official documents. For casual conversations, less formal alternatives might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "may we continue" in very casual settings. It can sound overly formal or even stilted among friends or in relaxed conversations. Opt for phrases like "can we move on?" or "shall we proceed?" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may we continue" functions as a polite interrogative clause. It is used to seek permission to proceed with an action or discussion, as shown in Ludwig's examples from various contexts. The use of 'may' indicates a request for approval.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may we continue" is a polite and grammatically correct way to ask for permission to proceed or suggest the continuation of an activity. As Ludwig shows, it's commonly used in news, media, and scientific contexts, aligning with a neutral to formal register. While the phrase is versatile, avoid overusing it in casual conversations where it may sound too formal. Remember to use it when you want to convey respect and ensure everyone is ready to move forward. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shall we proceed

Focuses directly on the act of proceeding, omitting the politeness.

shall we move forward

Emphasizes progression and making headway.

can we go on

More informal and direct; inquires about the possibility of continuing.

can we resume

Focuses on picking up where something was left off.

should we carry on

Suggests a sense of duty or obligation to continue.

how do we continue

Seeks help or knowledge about the continuation action to follow.

do you want to continue

Places the decision to continue directly on the listener.

should we perpetuate

Suggests ensuring something lasting will follow.

are we to continue

Highlights the predetermination of the desire to continue action.

are we going to continue

More inquisitive, wondering about the plans for continuing.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "may we continue" for a less formal setting?

In informal settings, you can use phrases like "can we move on?", "shall we proceed?", or simply "next?" to keep the conversation flowing without sounding overly formal.

What's the difference between "may we continue" and "can we continue"?

"May we continue" implies a polite request for permission, while "can we continue" questions the ability or possibility of continuing. "May" is more formal and courteous.

When is it appropriate to use "may we continue"?

It is most appropriate in formal or semi-formal settings such as business meetings, presentations, or when addressing someone with respect. It's a polite way to suggest or seek permission to proceed.

What are some alternatives to "may we continue" that maintain a level of formality?

If you want to maintain some formality, consider using phrases like "shall we proceed" or "should we carry on". These options still convey respect while being slightly less formal than "may we continue".