we may try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we may try" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when suggesting a possibility or intention to attempt something. Example: "If the weather permits, we may try to go for a hike." Alternative expressions include "we might attempt" and "we could consider."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Next year, we may try a sherry".

The New York Times

We may try to introduce new elements in the fall".

The New York Times

"Then we may try to find a portfolio lender as a backup".

The New York Times

For all we may try to deny the fact, the emotions associated with food run very deep.

The Guardian - Opinion

If an evaluation of the pilot shows successful results, we may try that approach elsewhere, including Sierra Leone.

The Guardian

Since many of us have lost that option for ourselves, we may try to find it through our children.

The New York Times

We find it psychologically unbearable and inside ourselves we may try to make ourselves part author of our misfortune rather than simply the recipient of it.

The Guardian - Opinion

The process usually takes a few days, he said, but he added that "under the circumstances, we may try to expedite it".

The New York Times

He still objects to milk and bread but in a week or so we may try him with breast of chicken.

The New Yorker

She is also a reminder that whatever we love dearly remains a part of us, however we may try to escape its pull.

The New York Times - Books

"No matter how friendly, trustworthy, and helpful we may try to be, habits and traditions learned during a lifetime of oppression do not die easily".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we may try" when you want to express a tentative plan or a possibility without committing to a definite course of action. It's suitable for situations where the outcome is uncertain.

Common error

In formal writing, avoid overusing "we may try" as it can sound indecisive. Opt for stronger verbs like "we will" or "we shall" when expressing commitments or firm plans.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we may try" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating possibility or intention. It suggests a potential action without a firm commitment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, suggesting it's a standard way to express tentative plans.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we may try" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a tentative plan or possibility. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. The phrase carries a neutral tone, making it appropriate for both formal and informal communication. While versatile, remember to consider stronger alternatives when expressing firm commitments. As the numerous examples provided by Ludwig show, this phrase is both correct and commonly used to convey potential actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we might attempt

Suggests a slightly more formal or deliberate approach than "we may try".

we could attempt

Indicates a possibility or potential action, similar to "we may try" but with a touch more tentativeness.

we can attempt

Conveys ability and possibility, implying that the means to try are available.

we might consider

Highlights the act of thinking about something as a potential course of action.

we could consider

Similar to "we might consider" but with a slightly weaker degree of commitment.

we may consider

Very similar to "we may try", focusing on consideration as the initial step.

we plan to attempt

Expresses a more definitive intention to try something, indicating a plan is in place.

we intend to try

Indicates a firm intention to make an effort, stronger than "we may try".

we are going to try

A more informal way of expressing intention, implying a near-future attempt.

we will try

Suggests a stronger commitment to trying, implying a higher degree of certainty.

FAQs

How can I use "we may try" in a sentence?

Use "we may try" to express a tentative plan or a possibility, for instance, "If the weather is good, "we may try" to visit the park."

What phrases are similar to "we may try"?

Similar phrases include "we might attempt", "we could consider", or "we plan to attempt", each conveying a slightly different nuance of intention or possibility.

When is it best to use "we may try" instead of "we will try"?

Use "we may try" when the outcome is uncertain or the plan is not yet definite. "We will try" implies a stronger commitment and greater certainty.

Is "we may try" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "we may try" can sound less decisive in formal contexts. Consider using stronger alternatives like "we intend to try" or "we are going to try" for greater impact.