that may exist

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that may exist" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to possibilities or hypothetical situations regarding the existence of something. Example: "We should consider all factors that may exist before making a final decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Any barriers that may exist, exist only in people's minds.

Independent

"We believe that the tribunal is addressing any deficiency that may exist," he said.

The New York Times

In addition to fees, relationships that may exist among the different providers are noted.

The New York Times

Extraterrestrial life, life that may exist or may have existed in the universe outside of Earth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At the least, they are ill informed about more healthful possibilities that may exist in their neighborhoods.

The New York Times

Write a paper exploring the possible conflicts of interest that may exist when a company owns several different media outlets.

The New York Times

"I want to remove any question that may exist regarding my compliance with federal law," he wrote.

The New York Times

The gap that may exist between a bank's policy and real life is something I learned the hard way.

The New York Times - Travel

"Clair is designed to help you identify insecure packages that may exist in your containers".

TechCrunch

Life in ice layers that may exist ∼100gcm−2 below the surface would be well protected.

Planetary and Space Science

This chapter introduces the inheritance relationship that may exist between classes.

Groovy Programming An Introduction for Java Developers

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "that may exist" with stronger alternatives like "that likely exists" if evidence suggests a higher probability.

Common error

Avoid using "that may exist" excessively in your writing, as it can make your statements sound weak or indecisive. Balance uncertainty with confidence by using more definitive language when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that may exist" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun or noun phrase by specifying a condition of potential existence. It introduces an element of uncertainty or possibility, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "that may exist" is a versatile relative clause used to express uncertainty or possibility regarding the existence of something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in science and news media. While useful for hedging claims and exploring hypothetical scenarios, it's essential to avoid overuse and replace it with more direct language when appropriate. Related phrases include "that might exist" and "that could exist". Remember to balance uncertainty with confidence for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that might exist

Replaces 'may' with 'might', suggesting a slightly lower probability.

that could exist

Substitutes 'may' with 'could', indicating a potential but uncertain existence.

that potentially exists

Adds 'potentially' to emphasize the possibility of existence.

that possibly exists

Uses 'possibly' to highlight the uncertainty of existence.

that is conceivable

Replaces the entire phrase, referring to something imaginable or possible.

that is likely to exist

Indicates a higher probability of existence.

that is hypothesized

Implies the existence is part of a theory or hypothesis.

that is rumored to exist

Conveys the existence is based on unverified information or rumors.

that is speculated to exist

Suggests the existence is a matter of speculation or conjecture.

that remains unknown

Indicates the existence is uncertain due to a lack of knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "that may exist" in a sentence?

The phrase "that may exist" is used to refer to potential or hypothetical things. For example, "Consider any risks "that may arise" during the project."

What's a more concise way to say "that may exist"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "potential", "possible", or rephrase the sentence to be more direct. For example, instead of "problems that may exist", try "potential problems".

Is it ever wrong to use "that may exist"?

While grammatically correct, "that may exist" can weaken your writing if overused. If you're confident something exists, use a stronger phrase. If the existence is highly uncertain, alternatives like "that is hypothesized" or "that is speculated" may be appropriate.

What's the difference between "that may exist" and "that does exist"?

"That may exist" indicates uncertainty or possibility, while "that does exist" asserts a confirmed fact. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects your level of confidence in the existence of something.