might be that

USAGE SUMMARY

"might be that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to express that there is a possibility that something is true, and to introduce a clause that explains what that something might be. For example, "It might be that the reason for his absence was due to illness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ms. Pao might be that rare exception.

The New York Times

Lewis just might be that player".

The New York Times - Sports

"It might be that simple".

The Guardian - Music

It might be that way forever.

The New York Times - Sports

So it might be that, too".

The Guardian - Film

One wrinkle might be that doping controversy.

The New York Times - Travel

McGough himself might be that sceptic.

The Guardian - Books

It might be that of our children and grandchildren.

The Washington Post

Abraham might be that player in a few years.

The New York Times - Sports

This might be that struggle's Battle of Gettysburg.

The New York Times

It might be that justice itself required Georgies.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "might be that" to introduce a potential explanation or reason, particularly when you want to express uncertainty or suggest a possibility rather than a certainty. For example, "The delay might be that the shipment was held up in customs."

Common error

Avoid using "might be that" excessively in formal or academic writing where a more direct and assertive tone is preferred. Instead, opt for phrases like "it is likely that" or "it is probable that" for greater impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

Might be that functions as a modal verb phrase, typically used to introduce a clause that suggests a possible explanation, reason, or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in expressing possibilities across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "might be that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce possibilities or potential explanations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly found across diverse contexts, from news articles to scientific papers. Although its neutral register allows for broad application, writers should consider more formal alternatives like "it is possible that" in academic or professional settings to enhance clarity and authority. Be mindful of overusing "might be that" and leverage its subtle nuance to enrich your writing with thoughtful speculation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it could be that

A more casual alternative, expressing a similar level of possibility.

it may be that

Similar to "might be that", but can sometimes suggest a slightly lower degree of certainty.

it is possible that

More formal and directly expresses possibility.

it's likely that

Indicates a good chance of something being true.

perhaps it is that

Highlights uncertainty and introduces a potential reason or explanation.

it is probable that

Suggests a higher degree of likelihood than "might be that".

it's plausible that

Suggests the idea is believable or credible.

it is conceivable that

Implies something is imaginable or believable.

the possibility exists that

A more formal way of introducing a potential explanation.

one explanation could be that

Specifically presents an alternative as one potential explanation among others.

FAQs

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

You can use "might be that" to introduce a possible explanation or reason for something. For example, "The reason he's late "might be that" he missed his train."

What's a more formal alternative to "might be that"?

In more formal contexts, you could use phrases like "it is possible that" or "it is conceivable that" instead of "might be that".

Is "might be that" grammatically correct?

Yes, "might be that" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English to express a possibility or a hypothesis.

What's the difference between "might be that" and "could be that"?

"Might be that" and "could be that" are very similar in meaning and can often be used interchangeably. Both express a possibility, though "could be that" might sometimes imply a slightly higher degree of uncertainty.