may
/meɪ/modal verb★Intermediate
formalinformal
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.
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Often used in formal requests or to indicate uncertainty.
formal
To be allowed to do something
Students may use calculators during the exam.
This indicates permission for students.
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Common in official instructions or rules.
Collocations
may becould bemay notis not allowed to
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
may as wellphrase
to do something because it is the best option
💡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.
English Dictionary