might be reasonable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "might be reasonable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that something is a plausible or acceptable option, often in a hypothetical context. Example: "Given the circumstances, it might be reasonable to consider an alternative approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Eyebrows seem like something it might be reasonable to want.

The New York Times

Though, it might be reasonable to reallocate assets to a different section of your portfolio.

Yale University

In such cases, an accommodation might be reasonable but not necessary.

Cornell University

That might be reasonable, given that they are the most expensively trained troops on earth.

The Guardian - Opinion

For example, buying at 60% of the outstanding principal amounts of a pool might be reasonable.

The New York Times

It might be reasonable to phase out some existing breaks rather than cancel them immediately.

The New York Times

If you know how to do these problems already, then skipping 216 might be reasonable, although it is rare.

Princeton University

"If things continue as they are now and there are no setbacks, then March 14 might be reasonable.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

If it were about the dangers of future or speculative technologies, then it might be reasonable to dismiss it as academic scare-mongering.

The Guardian - Opinion

In normal times that might be reasonable if you borrow a million dollars and only give back $600,000 that's a gain for you.

Forbes

That leaves us, again, to scratch our heads and ask what might be reasonable.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "might be reasonable", ensure the context clearly indicates the criteria or perspective that makes the action or decision reasonable. For example, specify 'it might be reasonable from a financial perspective' or 'it might be reasonable given the limited resources'.

Common error

Avoid using "might be reasonable" without explaining why something is reasonable. Readers need to understand the underlying logic or criteria. Instead of saying 'The decision might be reasonable', specify 'The decision might be reasonable given the company's current financial constraints'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "might be reasonable" functions as a modal expression of possibility and suggestion. It indicates that something is potentially acceptable or justifiable under certain circumstances. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "might be reasonable" is a versatile phrase used to suggest that something is potentially acceptable or justifiable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and very common across diverse contexts such as news, science and academia. When using the phrase, it's best practice to provide clear context for why something is reasonable to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "could be justified" or "may be appropriate". By following these guidelines, writers can effectively use "might be reasonable" to express tentative suggestions and open up possibilities in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be justified

Emphasizes the justifiability of an action or decision, suggesting a moral or ethical basis.

may be appropriate

Focuses on the suitability of something for a particular purpose or situation.

could be acceptable

Highlights the acceptance or permissibility of something, often in a social or ethical context.

may be sensible

Stresses the practicality and good judgment behind a course of action.

could be a good idea

Suggests that something is worth considering due to its potential benefits.

it is possibly wise

Emphasizes the prudence and wisdom of a particular action.

it's potentially valid

Focuses on the logical or factual basis of an argument or claim.

it's perhaps advisable

Highlights the recommended or suggested nature of an action, implying expert advice.

that may be warranted

Suggests that there is sufficient reason or justification for something.

it might be prudent

Emphasizes caution and careful consideration in decision-making.

FAQs

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

Use "might be reasonable" to suggest a plausible or acceptable option, often in a hypothetical context. For example: "Given the circumstances, it "might be reasonable" to consider an alternative approach."

What are some alternatives to "might be reasonable"?

You can use alternatives like "could be justified", "may be appropriate", or "could be acceptable" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "might be reasonable" and "could be reasonable"?

While both express possibility, "might be reasonable" often implies a slightly lower probability or a more tentative suggestion compared to "could be reasonable". The best choice depends on the intended nuance.

When is it appropriate to use "might be reasonable" in formal writing?

It's appropriate when you want to suggest a course of action without fully committing to it, acknowledging that other options exist or that further evaluation is needed. In formal contexts, ensure the reasons why something "might be reasonable" are clearly explained.