might be discovered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "might be discovered" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of something being found or revealed in the future. Example: "The hidden treasure might be discovered by an adventurous explorer someday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Keep going and something might be discovered.

The Guardian - Arts

It said yet more gas might be discovered in future drilling.

The Guardian - Business

A connection would be forged; a potential career might be discovered.

The New York Times

"We're worried more about what damage might be discovered in the future," he added.

The New York Times

The banks put in terms specifying they had no responsibility for any fraud that might be discovered.

The New York Times

signed a broad agreement with Centocor licensing the rights to monoclonal antibodies to cytokines that might be discovered in our lab.

The New York Times - Science

That delay might be discovered in the DNA, more likely in the sections that control when and how strongly genes become active, rather than in the genes themselves.

The New York Times - Science

A forensic method is needed to reconstruct the production history for each of the uranium-enrichment facilities that might be discovered.

Nature

It does not surprise me that with all the boxes and files of documents that something might be discovered later than the time it had been asked for.

The New York Times

So, it seems, the father already understood what the son was afraid to tell him; trust might be discovered where it is least expected.

The New York Times - Books

He added: "For some days, of course, we hoped against hope that she had wandered crazily away and might be discovered in a barn or a village shop.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "might be discovered" to express a potential future finding or revelation, especially when the discovery is uncertain or depends on specific conditions. For example, "New evidence might be discovered during the investigation."

Common error

While "might be discovered" is grammatically sound, avoid overusing passive voice constructions. Active voice often makes your writing more direct and engaging. Instead of "The solution might be discovered by researchers", consider "Researchers might discover the solution".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "might be discovered" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating a potential action or event that could occur in the future. It describes the possibility of something being found or revealed, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Science & Research

11%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "might be discovered" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate the potential for a future finding or revelation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and research. While versatile, it's essential to consider the nuances of similar phrases and avoid overusing passive voice. Keep in mind Ludwig's recommendations for more effective writing, ensuring clarity and impact in your communication. The phrase's presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its reliability and acceptance in formal and informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be found

This alternative suggests a possibility, similar to the original phrase, but with a slightly more informal tone.

may be uncovered

This implies a sense of revelation or bringing something hidden to light, adding a layer of unveiling to the possibility.

could be unearthed

This suggests a discovery after a period of being hidden or forgotten, often implying effort in the finding.

might be revealed

This alternative focuses on the act of making something known, emphasizing the disclosure aspect.

may come to light

Suggests that information or a fact may become public or known, often implying a gradual process.

might surface

Implies something previously hidden or submerged becoming visible or known, often unexpectedly.

could materialise

Focuses on the possibility of something becoming real or tangible after being uncertain or abstract.

may transpire

Indicates that something might happen or occur, often unexpectedly or as a result of other events.

might come into view

Suggests a gradual or eventual appearance, focusing on the act of something becoming visible or apparent.

could become apparent

This implies that something may become clear or obvious, often after a period of obscurity or confusion.

FAQs

How can I use "might be discovered" in a sentence?

Use "might be discovered" to indicate a possibility of finding something in the future. For example, "New species of insects "might be discovered" in the Amazon rainforest".

What are some alternatives to "might be discovered"?

You can use alternatives like "could be found", "may be uncovered", or "might be revealed" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "might be discovered"?

While "might be discovered" is grammatically correct in the passive voice, consider using the active voice for more directness. For instance, instead of "The treasure might be discovered by someone", you could say "Someone might discover the treasure".

What does "might be unearthed" mean, and how is it different from "might be discovered"?

"Might be unearthed" suggests a discovery after something has been buried or hidden for a long time, adding a sense of digging or uncovering something old. "Might be discovered" is a more general term for finding something, regardless of how long it was hidden.