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may

[meɪ]

may Definition

  • 1expressing possibility
  • 2expressing permission
  • 3used to indicate a wish or hope

Using may: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "may" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    It may rain later today.

  • Example

    May I ask you a question?

  • Example

    May all your dreams come true.

  • Example

    You may leave the room now.

may Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for may

Antonyms for may

Phrases with may

  • used to suggest doing something because there is no good reason not to

    Example

    Since we have nothing else to do, we may as well go for a walk.

  • used to indicate that something is uncertain or unknown

    Example

    I may or may not attend the party tonight, depending on how I feel.

  • used to politely introduce a comment or opinion

    Example

    If I may say so, I think your presentation was excellent.

Origins of may

from Old English 'mæg', meaning 'to be able'

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Summary: may in Brief

The word 'may' [meɪ] is a modal verb that expresses possibility, permission, and wishes. It can be used in phrases like 'may as well' to suggest doing something because there is no good reason not to, and 'if I may say so' to politely introduce a comment or opinion.

How do native speakers use this expression?