they may reject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they may reject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility of someone declining or not accepting something, such as an offer, proposal, or idea. Example: "When submitting your application, be aware that they may reject it if it does not meet the required criteria."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

They may reject it.

The Economist

Therefore, perfectly rationally, they may reject plastic.

Independent

Governments always resist relinquishing control, and they may reject this proposal.

The New York Times

Under some conditions, they may reject as much as 70% of all the solar energy they absorb.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

They may reject plastic bags and bottles or use a bike-share program to get around town.

The Washington Post

When they also learn that Norway has to pay for the privilege, they may reject it outright.Britain might, however, seek a more distant relationship.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Some (or many) of them may reject it because they do not understand it.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

That is risky, they say, because consumers may reject bioengineered food.

The New York Times - Science

Students and societies may reject what they consider to be "dogma," but they are always drawn to ritual, community, and a shared purpose.

Duke University

Some may reject the beliefs they were carefully taught -- defining their own explanations, their individual spirituality -- however expressed.

Huffington Post

The GOP may reject infrastructure spending now, but they'll need its likes to rebuild their party.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality required for your writing. While "they may reject" is generally acceptable, alternatives like "they might decline" can be more appropriate for formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "they may reject" when a stronger term like "refuse" or "veto" is more appropriate. "Reject" implies a possibility, while other terms may indicate a more definitive action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they may reject" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a possibility or potential action. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. The modal verb "may" indicates uncertainty, while "reject" signifies a refusal to accept or agree.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they may reject" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express the possibility of refusal or non-acceptance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and it appears across various contexts, from news reports to academic discussions. When crafting content, ensure clarity in defining "they" and what is being rejected. While generally neutral, tailoring the formality using synonyms like "decline" is advised for specific audiences. This phrase, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, effectively conveys uncertainty and potential outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they may not accept

A straightforward way of saying something might not be agreed to.

they might decline

Indicates a polite or formal refusal.

they might say no to

A more informal and direct way of expressing refusal.

they could refuse

Expresses a potential refusal with a slightly stronger connotation.

they might turn down

Implies a rejection of an offer or proposal.

they could dismiss

Suggests a rejection due to lack of importance or relevance.

they might disapprove of

Indicates a lack of agreement or satisfaction with something.

they may veto

Suggests a formal rejection with the power to prevent something.

they could rebuff

Implies a blunt or abrupt rejection.

they may spurn

Suggests rejecting something with disdain or contempt.

FAQs

How can I use "they may reject" in a sentence?

You can use "they may reject" when indicating a possibility that someone will refuse or decline something. For example, "If the proposal isn't clear, "they may reject" it".

What can I say instead of "they may reject"?

You can use alternatives like "they might decline", "they could refuse", or "they may not accept" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "they may reject" or "they might reject"?

Both "they may reject" and "they might reject" are grammatically correct and interchangeable. "Might" often indicates a slightly lower probability than "may", but in practice, the difference is minimal.

What's the difference between "they may reject" and "they will reject"?

"They may reject" expresses a possibility or uncertainty, whereas "they will reject" indicates a definite intention or certainty about the rejection.