we may try to

USAGE SUMMARY

"we may try to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express a possibility or a possibility of taking an action. Example: We may try to find a solution to this difficult problem.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

We may try to deny its existence, but even that "choice" is a symptom of the disease.

Harvard University

We may try to direct you to other options if we believe they are likely to be more effective.

Columbia University

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

The Guardian - Opinion

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

The New York Times

If we sense that someone used the DITF technique to gain an advantage, we may try to "get even" by demanding more ourselves.

Harvard University

Because negative emotions cause us discomfort and distress, we may try to tamp them down, hoping that our feelings will dissipate with time.

Harvard University

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

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language by using synonyms or related phrases to avoid repetition and maintain reader interest.

Common error

In highly formal or business settings, overuse of "we may try to" can sound weak or lacking in confidence. Opt for stronger expressions like "we will endeavor to" or "we are committed to" to convey a greater sense of determination and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we may try to" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing possibility, intention, or a tentative plan. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is both correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig show its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we may try to" is a versatile modal verb phrase used to express a tentative plan or possibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While common across various contexts, including news, academia, and science, it's essential to consider the register and choose more assertive alternatives in formal settings. The phrase's frequency underscores its prevalence in everyday language, offering a flexible way to communicate potential actions without firm commitments. Therefore, while "we may try to" is generally acceptable and widely used, be mindful of the context and choose the most appropriate expression to convey the intended meaning and level of certainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we might attempt to

Replaces "try" with "attempt", suggesting a slightly more formal or deliberate effort.

we could try to

Substitutes "may" with "could", indicating a weaker level of certainty or possibility.

we can try to

Replaces "may" with "can", suggesting ability or permission to try, rather than just possibility.

we might consider trying to

Adds "consider", implying a more thoughtful or tentative approach.

we may consider attempting to

Adds "consider" and replaces "try" with "attempting", further emphasizing a deliberate and thoughtful approach.

it is possible we will try to

Rephrases the sentence to explicitly state the possibility, adding emphasis.

we are able to try to

Focuses on the ability to try, rather than the possibility or intention.

we contemplate trying to

Replaces "may try" with "contemplate trying", suggesting a more prolonged consideration.

we intend to try to

Focuses on the intention, rather than the possibility, of trying.

we hope to try to

Introduces the element of hope or desire into the act of trying.

FAQs

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

You can use "we may try to" to express a potential action or plan, indicating a degree of uncertainty or tentativeness. For example, "We may try to implement the new strategy next quarter depending on the budget."

What are some alternatives to "we may try to"?

You can use alternatives like "we might attempt to", "we could try to", or "we can try to" depending on the context and the level of certainty you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "we may try to" versus "we will"?

"We may try to" is appropriate when expressing a possibility or a tentative plan, while "we will" indicates a firm commitment. Use "we may try to" when the outcome is uncertain or dependent on other factors, and "we will" when you are confident in achieving the goal.

Is "we may try to" too informal for professional writing?

While generally acceptable, "we may try to" can sometimes sound weak in formal contexts. Consider using stronger or more decisive alternatives like "we intend to" or "we will endeavor to" to project greater confidence and commitment.