that may mean

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that may mean" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing potential interpretations or implications of a statement or situation. Example: "If the project is delayed, that may mean we need to adjust our timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

suspect that may mean it's done.

The Guardian

What that may mean is anyone's guess.

The Economist

It is a claim that may mean little to consumers.

The New York Times - Tech

IT calls itself a "tapas bistro," whatever that may mean.

The New York Times

In practice, that may mean covering the entire shortfall.

The Guardian - Business

In some cases, that may mean once in three years.

The New York Times - Health

Who cares if art makes life, whatever that may mean?

The New Yorker

In municipalities that may mean swimming pools and pedestrian zones.

The Economist

For some IoT developers, that may mean choosing between product usability and product security.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

For the health plans, that may mean constantly tracking patients, treatments and results.

The New York Times

In suburbia, that may mean hauling out heavy equipment like plows and snow throwers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that may mean", ensure the connection between the initial statement and the possible outcome is clear. If the link isn't obvious, provide additional context to support the interpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "that may mean" to introduce an outcome that is already known or highly probable. Instead, use stronger language to reflect the level of certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that may mean" functions as a modal verb phrase used to express a potential consequence, implication, or interpretation of a preceding statement. As shown by Ludwig AI, it introduces a degree of uncertainty or possibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that may mean" is a versatile modal verb phrase used to introduce potential consequences or interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. While it's appropriate for various registers, ensure the link between the statement and the suggested outcome is clear. For alternatives, consider options like "that could indicate" or "that might imply", which offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that could indicate

Suggests a possible sign or signal pointing to something.

that might imply

Focuses on a subtle suggestion or indirect indication.

that could signify

Highlights the potential for something to represent or symbolize something else.

that might entail

Emphasizes the potential consequences or requirements that follow from something.

that could lead to

Focuses on the potential progression or development resulting from a situation.

that might suggest

Indicates a tentative proposition or hypothesis based on available information.

that can imply

Points to a possible conclusion or meaning.

that can result in

Highlights the potential effect of an action or situation.

that can indicate

Indicates a correlation or suggestion.

that can signify

Points out something can mean in a symbolic sense.

FAQs

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

Use "that may mean" to suggest a potential consequence or interpretation. For example, "If the project is delayed, "that may mean" we need to adjust our timeline".

What phrases are similar to "that may mean"?

Similar phrases include "that could indicate", "that might imply", or "that could lead to". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "that may mean" formal or informal?

"That may mean" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality makes it a versatile choice for various writing styles.

What's the difference between "that may mean" and "that will mean"?

"That may mean" suggests a possibility, while "that will mean" implies a certainty. Use "that may mean" when the outcome is not guaranteed. For example, If they don't reach their goal, "that may mean" consequences.