may
You may leave early if you finish your work.
This sentence expresses permission.
To express possibility or permission
It may rain tomorrow.
This expresses a possibility.
May I borrow your pen?
This expresses a polite request for permission.
Often used in formal requests or to indicate uncertainty.
To be allowed to do something
Students may use calculators during the exam.
This indicates permission for students.
Common in official instructions or rules.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
'May' is more formal than 'might' or 'could' when expressing possibility. Use 'may' in formal writing or requests.
Gold Rule
Permission vs. Possibility
'May' can express both permission and possibility. Context determines the meaning.
Word Origin
From Old English 'mæg', meaning 'to be able to' or 'to have permission'.
Usage Notes
Often used in formal or polite contexts. 'May' is more formal than 'might' or 'could' when expressing possibility.