Modal Verb May

Exercises

Explanation

We use may to talk about:

• permission – when something is allowed

• possibility – when something could happen

• wishes or hopes – when we want something good to happen

Permission (Allowed or Not Allowed)

Use may to ask for or give permission.
Use may not to say that something is not allowed.

May I come in?
You may use my phone if you need it.
May we start the meeting now?
You may not enter this room without a badge.
Children may not play near the road.

Possibility (Something that could happen)

Use may when something is possible, but we are not sure.

It may snow tonight.
She may call you later.
We may visit our grandparents next weekend.
This movie may be interesting for kids.
He may not know the answer.

Wishes and Hopes

Use may at the start of a sentence to show a wish or hope.

May you have a safe journey!
May this day bring you happiness!
May your new job be successful!

Structure

Tense Note

We use may for the present and future. To talk about past permission, use was/were allowed to.

I was allowed to stay up late on Fridays.
You will be allowed to visit the museum next week.