The modal verb “may” is a versatile and essential component of English grammar, carrying a range of meanings from expressing possibility to granting permission and making polite requests. Understanding the nuances of “may” is crucial for effective communication, allowing you to convey your intended meaning with precision.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the various usages of “may,” equipping you with the knowledge and practice you need to master this important verb. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this detailed exploration of “may” will enhance your understanding and improve your fluency in English.
This guide is designed for English language learners of all levels, from beginners seeking a foundational understanding to advanced speakers aiming to refine their grasp of modal verbs. Native English speakers can also benefit from this structured overview to reinforce their knowledge and address any lingering ambiguities.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “May”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types of Usage
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “May”
“May” is a modal verb, also known as a modal auxiliary verb. Modal verbs are a type of auxiliary verb that express a range of meanings related to possibility, necessity, permission, ability, obligation, and more. “May” primarily functions to indicate possibility, permission, and polite requests. In addition to these core functions, it can also be used to express wishes, purpose, and concessions. Unlike main verbs, modal verbs like “may” do not change form to agree with the subject; they always appear in their base form and are followed by the base form of another verb (the main verb).
Understanding the subtle differences in how “may” is used is essential for clear and effective communication. For instance, using “may” to express possibility conveys a different level of certainty than using “might” or “could.” Similarly, the formality of “may” in requests contrasts with the more direct tone of “can.” Mastering these nuances is key to using “may” appropriately in various contexts.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of sentences using “may” is relatively straightforward. The basic pattern is as follows:
Subject + May + Base Form of Verb + (Optional Object/Complement)
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Subject: The person or thing performing the action (e.g., I, you, he, she, it, we, they, the student, the cat).
- May: The modal verb “may.”
- Base Form of Verb: The infinitive form of the verb without “to” (e.g., go, eat, study, play).
- Optional Object/Complement: Additional information that completes the meaning of the sentence (e.g., to the store, dinner, hard, happy).
Examples:
- I may go to the party.
- She may study abroad next year.
- They may arrive late.
In negative sentences, “not” is inserted after “may”:
Subject + May + Not + Base Form of Verb + (Optional Object/Complement)
Examples:
- I may not go to the party.
- She may not study abroad next year.
- They may not arrive late.
In questions, “may” typically comes before the subject:
May + Subject + Base Form of Verb + (Optional Object/Complement)?
Examples:
- May I ask a question?
- May we leave early?
- May she borrow your book?
Types of Usage
“May” has several distinct usages, each conveying a slightly different meaning. Understanding these different contexts is crucial for using “may” correctly and effectively.
Expressing Possibility
One of the most common uses of “may” is to express possibility or uncertainty. In this context, “may” indicates that something is possible but not definite.
The degree of possibility conveyed by “may” is generally stronger than “might” or “could,” but weaker than “will.”
Examples:
- It may rain tomorrow. (There is a chance of rain.)
- She may be late for the meeting. (It’s possible she will be late.)
- They may decide to move to another city. (It’s a possibility they will move.)
Granting or Requesting Permission
“May” is often used to grant or request permission, particularly in formal situations. When asking for permission, “may” is considered more polite than “can.”
Examples:
- May I leave the room? (Asking for permission to leave.)
- You may use my computer. (Granting permission to use the computer.)
- Students may submit their assignments online. (Stating the allowed method of submission.)
Making Polite Requests
Similar to asking for permission, “may” can also be used to make polite requests. This usage is common in formal settings or when addressing someone in a position of authority.
Examples:
- May I have your attention, please? (A polite way to ask for attention.)
- May I see your identification? (A polite request for identification.)
- May I offer you some assistance? (A polite offer of help.)
Expressing Wishes
“May” can be used to express wishes or hopes, often in formal or ceremonial contexts. This usage typically involves wishing someone well or expressing a desire for a positive outcome.
Examples:
- May you have a long and happy life. (A wish for a long and happy life.)
- May all your dreams come true. (A wish for dreams to be realized.)
- May the best team win. (A wish for the best team to be victorious.)
Expressing Purpose
“May” can be used with “so that” or “in order that” to express purpose. This usage indicates the reason or intention behind an action.
Examples:
- He studies hard so that he may pass the exam. (The purpose of studying hard is to pass the exam.)
- She saved money in order that she may travel the world. (The purpose of saving money is to travel the world.)
- They whispered so that no one may hear them. (The purpose of whispering is to avoid being heard.)
Making Concessions
“May” can be used to introduce a clause of concession, indicating that something is true despite another fact. This usage often appears with “however” or “although.”
Examples:
- He may be rich, however, he is not happy. (Despite being rich, he is not happy.)
- She may be tired, although, she will still finish the project. (Despite being tired, she will finish the project.)
- They may disagree, yet they respect each other’s opinions. (Despite disagreeing, they respect each other.)
Examples
To further illustrate the different usages of “may,” the following tables provide a variety of examples for each category.
Possibility Examples
This table provides examples of “may” used to express possibility. Notice how “may” suggests a chance or likelihood, but not a certainty.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The train may be delayed due to the storm. | Indicates a possible delay due to weather conditions. |
| She may decide to accept the job offer. | Suggests she is considering the offer, but hasn’t decided yet. |
| They may visit us next weekend. | Indicates a possibility of a visit. |
| It may snow tonight. | Expresses the possibility of snowfall. |
| He may have forgotten his keys. | Suggests a possible reason for his absence. |
| The company may announce new policies soon. | Indicates a possible upcoming announcement. |
| The project may be completed ahead of schedule. | Suggests the possibility of early completion. |
| The store may be closed on Sunday. | Indicates a possible closure on Sunday. |
| The meeting may run longer than expected. | Suggests the possibility of an extended meeting. |
| The flight may be cancelled due to technical issues. | Indicates a possible cancellation. |
| I may go to the gym later. | Expresses a possibility of going to the gym |
| She may call you tonight. | Suggests the possibility of her calling. |
| They may not come to the party. | Indicates a possibility of them not attending the party |
| It may be a good idea to wait. | Suggests a possibility that waiting is a good idea |
| He may need help with his homework. | Indicates a possibility of him needing assistance. |
| The restaurant may be fully booked. | Suggests a possibility of the restaurant being at full capacity. |
| The package may arrive tomorrow. | Indicates a possible delivery tomorrow. |
| The answer may be in the book. | Suggests a possibility of the answer being found in the book. |
| The weather may improve soon. | Indicates a possible improvement in the weather. |
| The price may increase next month. | Suggests a possible price increase. |
| The game may be postponed due to rain. | Indicates a possible postponement due to rain. |
| The concert may sell out quickly. | Suggests the possibility of the concert selling out fast. |
| The company may offer a discount. | Indicates a possible discount offer. |
| The truth may never be known. | Suggests the possibility that the truth might remain hidden. |
| He may be telling the truth. | Indicates a possibility that he is being truthful. |
Permission Examples
This table provides examples of “may” used to grant or request permission. Note the formal and polite tone.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| May I use your phone? | Requesting permission to use the phone. |
| You may enter the building now. | Granting permission to enter. |
| Students may bring their own snacks to class. | Granting permission to bring snacks. |
| May I ask a question? | Requesting permission to ask a question. |
| Visitors may park in the designated areas. | Granting permission to park in specific areas. |
| May I see your driver’s license? | Requesting permission to see the license. |
| You may begin the test now. | Granting permission to start the test. |
| Employees may take a 15-minute break. | Granting permission to take a break. |
| May I borrow your pen? | Requesting permission to borrow the pen. |
| You may leave the room after finishing your work. | Granting permission to leave after completing the work. |
| May I have your attention, please? | Requesting permission to have someone’s attention. |
| You may sit down. | Granting permission to sit. |
| May I speak to the manager? | Requesting permission to speak to the manager. |
| You may use the restroom. | Granting permission to use the restroom. |
| May I have another piece of cake? | Requesting permission to have more cake. |
| You may start the presentation. | Granting permission to start the presentation. |
| May I take a picture? | Requesting permission to take a photo. |
| You may wear casual clothes on Fridays. | Granting permission to wear casual clothes. |
| May I join you for lunch? | Requesting permission to join someone for lunch. |
| You may access the restricted area with authorization. | Granting permission to access the restricted area with authorization. |
| May I offer a suggestion? | Requesting permission to offer a suggestion. |
| You may consult with your colleagues. | Granting permission to consult with colleagues. |
| May I have a moment of your time? | Requesting permission to have someone’s time. |
| You may proceed with the experiment. | Granting permission to proceed with the experiment. |
| May I see the menu? | Requesting permission to see the menu. |
Polite Request Examples
This table showcases examples of “may” used in polite requests. These requests are typically more formal than those using “can” or “could.”
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| May I have a glass of water, please? | A polite request for water. |
| May I see your ticket, sir? | A polite request to see the ticket. |
| May I borrow your notes from yesterday’s class? | A polite request to borrow notes. |
| May I have your autograph? | A polite request for an autograph. |
| May I ask you a personal question? | A polite request to ask a personal question. |
| May I have a moment of your time? | A polite request for their time. |
| May I offer you a seat? | A polite offer of a seat. |
| May I help you with your luggage? | A polite offer of assistance with luggage. |
| May I suggest an alternative approach? | A polite suggestion of an alternative approach. |
| May I have your opinion on this matter? | A polite request for their opinion. |
| May I see your credentials? | A polite request to see someone’s credentials. |
| May I join your discussion? | A polite request to join a conversation. |
| May I have the bill, please? | A polite request for the bill at a restaurant. |
| May I know your name? | A polite request to know someone’s name. |
| May I have a sample of this perfume? | A polite request for a perfume sample. |
| May I try on this dress? | A polite request to try on clothing. |
| May I have a receipt, please? | A polite request for a receipt. |
| May I have your address? | A polite request for an address. |
| May I have a copy of this document? | A polite request for a copy of a document. |
| May I have your email address? | A polite request for an email address. |
| May I have a word with you in private? | A polite request to speak in private. |
| May I have this dance? | A polite request to dance with someone. |
| May I have a bite of your sandwich? | A polite request to have a bite of someone’s sandwich. |
| May I inquire about the price? | A polite request to ask about the price. |
| May I know what you think? | A polite request for an opinion. |
Expressing Wishes Examples
This table contains examples of “may” expressing wishes. These are often used in formal or ceremonial contexts.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| May you live a long and prosperous life. | Expressing a wish for a long and successful life. |
| May all your dreams come true. | Expressing a wish for the fulfillment of dreams. |
| May peace prevail on Earth. | Expressing a wish for global peace. |
| May the force be with you. | Expressing a wish for good luck and strength (often used jokingly). |
| May you find happiness in your new home. | Expressing a wish for happiness in a new residence. |
| May success be with you in your future endeavors. | Expressing a wish for success in future projects. |
| May your journey be safe and pleasant. | Expressing a wish for a safe and enjoyable trip. |
| May the new year bring you joy and prosperity. | Expressing a wish for a joyful and prosperous new year. |
| May your troubles be few and your blessings be many. | Expressing a wish for minimal problems and abundant blessings. |
| May the best man win. | Expressing a wish for the most deserving person to win. |
| May God bless you. | Expressing a religious blessing. |
| May fortune smile upon you. | Expressing a wish for good fortune. |
| May your efforts be rewarded. | Expressing a wish for recognition of hard work. |
| May you always be surrounded by love. | Expressing a wish to be surrounded by love. |
| May your health be strong and your spirit bright. | Expressing a wish for good health. |
| May you find the answers you seek. | Expressing a wish for finding answers. |
| May your heart be filled with joy. | Expressing a wish for happiness. |
| May your future be bright. | Expressing a wish for a positive future. |
| May you have a wonderful day. | Expressing a wish for a pleasant day. |
| May the light guide your way. | Expressing a wish for guidance and direction. |
| May your dreams take flight. | Expressing a wish for dreams to succeed. |
| May peace be with you always. | Expressing a wish for constant peace. |
| May your love grow stronger every day. | Expressing a wish for love to strengthen. |
| May all go well. | Expressing a wish for everything to be okay. |
| May this year be your best yet. | Expressing a wish for the current year to be the best. |
Expressing Purpose Examples
This table demonstrates the use of “may” to express purpose, often with “so that” or “in order that.”
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| He exercises regularly so that he may stay healthy. | Expresses the purpose of exercising: to stay healthy. |
| She studies diligently in order that she may get good grades. | Expresses the purpose of studying: to get good grades. |
| They saved money so that they may travel the world. | Expresses the purpose of saving: to travel the world. |
| We speak quietly so that we may not disturb others. | Expresses the purpose of speaking quietly: to avoid disturbing others. |
| The government invests in education so that the country may prosper. | Expresses the purpose of investing in education: for the country to prosper. |
| She practiced the piano every day in order that she may win the competition. | Expresses the purpose of practicing: to win the competition. |
| He took a course in public speaking so that he may become a better leader. | Expresses the purpose of taking the course: to become a better leader. |
| They planted trees so that future generations may enjoy the shade. | Expresses the purpose of planting trees: for future generations to enjoy the shade. |
| She wears glasses so that she may see clearly. | Expresses the purpose of wearing glasses: to see clearly. |
| We locked the door so that no one may enter without permission. | Expresses the purpose of locking the door: to prevent unauthorized entry. |
| He attends all the lectures so that he may understand the subject better. | Expresses the purpose of attending lectures: to understand the subject. |
| She volunteers at the hospital so that she may help those in need. | Expresses the purpose of volunteering: to help others. |
| They contribute to charity so that they may make a difference in the world. | Expresses the purpose of contributing to charity: to make a difference. |
| He reads books to broaden his knowledge so that he may succeed professionally. | Expresses the purpose of reading books: to succeed professionally. |
| They are learning a new language so that they may communicate with people from different cultures. | Expresses the purpose of learning a language: to communicate cross-culturally. |
| She is saving up money in order that she may buy a house in the future. | Expresses the purpose of saving money: to buy a house. |
| He is taking driving lessons so that he may drive a car. | Expresses the purpose of taking driving lessons: to drive a car. |
| They are following the recipe carefully so that they may bake a delicious cake. | Expresses the purpose of following the recipe: to bake a cake. |
| She is applying for the scholarship so that she may afford to go to college. | Expresses the purpose of applying for the scholarship: to afford college. |
| He is studying history so that he may understand the present better. | Expresses the purpose of studying history: to understand the present. |
| They are recycling so that they may protect the environment. | Expresses the purpose of recycling: to protect the environment. |
| She is taking a first aid course so that she may help in an emergency. | Expresses the purpose of taking the course: to help in an emergency. |
| He is working hard so that he may provide for his family. | Expresses the purpose of working: to provide for his family. |
| They are training for the marathon so that they may complete the race. | Expresses the purpose of training: to complete the race. |
| She is learning to code so that she may build her website. | Expresses the purpose of learning to code: to build a website. |
Concessions Examples
This table illustrates the use of “may” in clauses of concession, indicating something is true despite another fact.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| He may be tired, but he will still finish the job. | Concedes that he is tired, but emphasizes his commitment to finishing the job. |
| She may be young, yet she is very talented. | Concedes that she is young, but emphasizes her talent. |
| They may disagree, however, they remain good friends. | Concedes that they disagree, but emphasizes their friendship. |
| It may be expensive, but the quality is excellent. | Concedes that it is expensive, but emphasizes its high quality. |
| The task may be difficult, still we must attempt it. | Concedes that the task is difficult, but emphasizes the need to try. |
| He may be a beginner, but he learns quickly. | Concedes that he is a beginner, but emphasizes his rapid learning. |
| She may be shy, yet she is very intelligent. | Concedes that she is shy, but emphasizes her intelligence. |
| They may be late, however, they will definitely come. | Concedes that they may be late, but emphasizes their commitment to coming. |
| It may be raining, but we will still go for a walk. | Concedes that it is raining, but emphasizes the intention to walk. |
| The problem may seem complex, still it has a simple solution. | Concedes that the problem seems complex, but emphasizes its simple solution. |
| He may be stubborn, but he is also very loyal. | Concedes that he is stubborn, but emphasizes his loyalty. |
| She may be critical, yet she is always fair. | Concedes that she is critical, but emphasizes her fairness. |
| They may be different, however, they share the same values. | Concedes that they are different, but emphasizes their shared values. |
| It may be challenging, but it is worth the effort. | Concedes that it is challenging, but emphasizes its worth. |
| The movie may be long, still it is very captivating. | Concedes that the movie is long, but emphasizes its captivating nature. |
| He may be quiet, but he is always listening. | Concedes that he is quiet, but emphasizes his attentiveness. |
| She may be reserved, yet she is very kind. | Concedes that she is reserved, but emphasizes her kindness. |
| They may be competitors, however, they respect each other. | Concedes that they are competitors, but emphasizes their respect. |
| It may be old, but it is still valuable. | Concedes that it is old, but emphasizes its value. |
| The task may be tedious, still it is important. | Concedes that the task is tedious, but emphasizes its importance. |
| He may be strict, but he is also very caring. | Concedes that he is strict, but emphasizes his caring nature. |
| She may be a perfectionist, yet she is always improving. | Concedes that she is a perfectionist, but emphasizes her continuous improvement. |
| They may be from different backgrounds, however, they understand each other perfectly. | Concedes that they are from different backgrounds, but emphasizes their understanding. |
| It may be a risk, but it is worth taking. | Concedes that it is a risk, but emphasizes that it is worth taking. |
| The story may be fictional, still it conveys a powerful message. | Concedes that the story is fictional, but emphasizes that it conveys a powerful message. |
Usage Rules
Several rules govern the proper usage of “may”:
- “May” is always followed by the base form of a verb. (e.g., I may go, she may study, they may arrive).
- “May” does not change form to agree with the subject. It remains “may” regardless of whether the subject is singular or plural.
- In negative sentences, “not” is placed after “may.” (e.g., I may not go, she may not study, they may not arrive). The contracted form “mayn’t” is rare in modern English.
- When asking for permission, “may” is generally more formal and polite than “can.”
- “May” expresses a stronger degree of possibility than “might” or “could,” but a weaker degree than “will.”
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using “may”:
- Using “may” with the infinitive form of the verb (e.g., “I may to go”). The correct form is “I may go.”
- Using “may” interchangeably with “can” in all situations. While both can express possibility, “may” is generally more polite for requests and permission.
- Using “may be” when “maybe” is intended. “May be” is a verb phrase (It may be raining), while “maybe” is an adverb meaning “perhaps” (Maybe it will rain).
Examples of Incorrect vs. Correct Usage:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| I may to go to the store. | I may go to the store. | “May” should be followed by the base form of the verb, not the infinitive form. |
| Can I borrow your pen? | May I borrow your pen? | “May” is more polite than “can” when requesting permission. |
| May be it will rain tomorrow. | Maybe it will rain tomorrow. | “Maybe” (adverb) means “perhaps,” while “may be” (verb phrase) indicates possibility. |
| She may goes to the party. | She may go to the party. | “May” doesn’t change form based on the subject. |
| May I going to the cinema? | May I go to the cinema? | “May” should be followed by the base form of the verb. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of “may” with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Identifying Correct Usage
Choose the sentence in each pair that uses “may” correctly.
-
a) I may to visit my friend this weekend.
b) I may visit my friend this weekend.Answer: b
-
a) May I to have a glass of water?
b) May I have a glass of water?Answer: b
-
a) She maybe be late for the meeting.
b) She may be late for the meeting.Answer: b
-
a) They may went to the park.
b) They may go to the park.Answer: b
-
a) May you having a wonderful day!
b) May you have a wonderful day!Answer: b
-
a) Maybe I go to the concert.
b) I may go to the concert.Answer: b
-
a) May I to use your telephone?
b) May I use your telephone?Answer: b
-
a) He may be arrives late.
b) He may arrive late.Answer: b
Exercise 2: Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences using “may” and the appropriate form of the verb in parentheses.
- It __________ (rain) tomorrow, so bring an umbrella.
Answer: may rain
- __________ I __________ (borrow) your car for the weekend?
Answer: May, borrow
- They __________ (not come) to the party if they are busy.
Answer: may not come
- She __________ (decide) to study abroad next year.
Answer: may decide
- __________ you __________ (have) a long and happy life!
Answer: May, have
- He studies hard so that he __________ (pass) the exam.
Answer: may pass
- They __________ (be) late because of the traffic.
Answer: may be
- __________ I __________ (help) you with your bags?
Answer: May, help
- You __________ (leave) the room once you have finished your test.
Answer: may leave
- The package __________ (arrive) tomorrow.
Answer: may arrive
Exercise 3: Error Correction
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.
- I may to go to the doctor tomorrow.
Answer: I may go to the doctor tomorrow.
- May I to have some more tea?
Answer: May I have some more tea?
- She maybe be visiting her family.
Answer: She may be visiting her family.
- They may went to the beach yesterday.
Answer: They may go to the beach yesterday.
- May you will have a blessed day!
Answer: May you have a blessed day!
- I may going to the party tonight.
Answer: I may go to the party tonight.
- He may to arrive late because of the rain.
Answer: He may arrive late because of the rain.
- May I seeing the doctor now?
Answer: May I see the doctor now?
- They maybe not attend the meeting.
Answer: They may not attend the meeting.
- She may be has finished her work.
Answer: She may have finished her work.
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider these more complex aspects of “may”:
- “May” vs. “Might”: While both express possibility, “may” generally indicates a greater likelihood than “might.” “Might” often suggests a more remote or uncertain possibility.
- “May have + past participle”: This structure expresses a possibility about something that happened in the past (e.g., He may have missed the bus).
- Formal vs. Informal Usage: Be mindful of the context and audience when using “may.” In very informal situations, “can” or other alternatives might be more appropriate.
FAQ
Is “may” always more polite than “can”?
Yes, generally. When asking for permission or making requests, “may” is considered more formal and polite, especially in professional or formal settings.
However, in casual conversation, “can” is often acceptable.
Can “may” be used in the past tense?
No, “may” is a modal verb and does not have a past tense form. To express possibility in the past, use “may have + past participle” (e.g., He may have gone home).
What is the difference between “may be” and “maybe”?
“May be” is a verb phrase consisting of the modal verb “may” and the verb “be.” It expresses possibility (e.g., It may be raining). “Maybe” is an adverb meaning “perhaps” (e.g., Maybe it will rain).
Is it correct to say “May I help you?”
Yes, “May I help you?” is a polite and formal way to offer assistance, commonly used in customer service or professional settings.
Can I start a sentence with may?
Yes, you can start a sentence with “May” when asking for permission or expressing a wish (e.g., “May I come in?” or “May you have good health!”).
How do I use “may” to express uncertainty?
You can use “may” to express uncertainty by indicating that something is possible but not certain (e.g., “The train may be delayed”). The degree of uncertainty is generally less than with “might” but more than with “will”.
What are some alternatives to using “may”?
Alternatives to “may” depend on the context. For possibility, you can use “might,” “could,” or “perhaps.” For permission, you might use “can” (in informal situations) or phrases like “Is it okay if…?” For requests, “could” or “would you mind…?” are alternatives.
Is “mayn’t” ever used?
The contraction “mayn’t” (may + not) is grammatically correct, but it is very rare in modern English. It is generally better to use “may not” instead.
Conclusion
“May” is a versatile modal verb with a range of uses, from expressing possibility and granting permission to making polite requests and expressing wishes. By understanding the nuances of each usage and avoiding common mistakes, you can effectively incorporate “may” into your English communication.
Practice the examples and exercises provided in this guide to solidify your knowledge and enhance your fluency. Mastering “may” will undoubtedly improve your ability to express yourself with precision and politeness in various contexts.