"May" is most commonly used to express possibility. It can also be used to give or request permission, although this usage is becoming less common.
Examples:
- Cheryl may be at home, or perhaps at work. possibility
- Johnny, you may leave the table when you have finished your dinner. give permission
- May I use your bathroom? request permission
Using "May" in Present, Past, and Future
Most modal verbs behave quite irregularly in the past and the future. Study the chart below to learn how "may" behaves in different contexts.
| Modal Use | Positive Forms 1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future | Negative Forms 1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future | You can also use: |
| may possibility | 1. Jack may be upset. I can't really tell if he is annoyed or tired.
2. Jack may have been upset. I couldn't really tell if he was annoyed or tired.
3. Jack may get upset if you don't tell him the truth.
| 1. Jack may not be upset. Perhaps he is tired.
2. Jack may not have been upset. Perhaps he was tired.
3. Jack may not get upset, even if you tell him the truth
| might |
| may give permission | 1. You may leave the table now that you're finished with your dinner.
2. SHIFT TO "BE ALLOWED TO"
You were allowed to leave the table after you finished your dinner.
3. You may leave the table when you finish your dinner.
| 1. You may not leave the table. You're not finished with your dinner yet.
2. SHIFT TO "BE ALLOWED TO"
You were not allowed to leave the table because you hadn't finished your dinner.
3. You may not leave the table until you are finished with your dinner.
| can |
| may request permission | May I borrow your eraser?
May I make a phone call?
Requests usually refer to the near future.
| NO NEGATIVE FORMS | can, might |
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