may yet be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may yet be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a possibility or potential for something to happen in the future, often implying that it is not certain but still possible. Example: "Though the project faces many challenges, it may yet be completed by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That may yet be true.

The Economist

It may yet be buried.

The Economist

Weapons may yet be found.

The New Yorker

And it may yet be.

The Economist

We may yet be.

The Guardian - Sport

It may yet be all of them.

The Economist

Peace may yet be within reach.

The Economist

They may yet be so again.

The Economist

Further punishments may yet be added.

The Economist

The worst may yet be averted.

The Economist

Mr Strauss-Kahn may yet be acquitted.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may yet be", ensure that the context provides a clear indication of what the potential future outcome is. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "may yet be" when you are presenting factual information or making definitive statements. It's best suited for speculative or forward-looking contexts, not for summarizing established facts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may yet be" functions as a modal phrase expressing possibility or potential in the future. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to indicate that something could still happen, despite current uncertainties. This is evident in examples like "Peace may yet be within reach."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may yet be" is a versatile expression indicating a possible future outcome, often carrying a nuanced sense of cautious optimism. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in news and media contexts. It's essential to use "may yet be" when conveying tentative possibilities rather than established facts. For alternatives, consider phrases like "could still happen" or "might still transpire". Remember to maintain clarity in your writing by ensuring the potential outcome is well-defined within the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's still possible

Directly states the possibility of something happening.

it's not impossible

States that an outcome is within the bounds of possibility.

could still happen

Emphasizes the possibility of an event occurring despite current circumstances.

the potential remains

Highlights that the capacity for something to happen still exists.

there's a chance it will

Highlights the element of chance or likelihood.

it remains a possibility

Focuses on the continuation of a potential outcome.

there is still hope

Focuses on the optimistic view that a desired outcome can still be achieved.

might still transpire

A more formal way of saying something could still occur.

it could come to pass

Suggests a future event that is not yet certain.

it is not beyond the realm of possibility

Emphasizes that something is within the scope of what is possible, though perhaps unlikely.

FAQs

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

The phrase "may yet be" expresses a future possibility that is not certain. For instance, "Despite the initial setbacks, the project "may yet be" successful" suggests a chance of success remains.

What are some alternatives to "may yet be"?

Alternatives include "could still happen", "might still transpire", or "it's still possible". The choice depends on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "may yet be" in formal writing?

Yes, "may yet be" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a sense of possibility without making a definitive claim, which is often appropriate in academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "may yet be" and "might be"?

"May yet be" often implies a degree of optimism or a sense that something positive could still emerge, even in the face of challenges. "Might be" is a more neutral expression of possibility without the same optimistic connotation.