may
may
modal verb (might)
/meɪ/
1 used to say that something is possible
That may or may not be true.
He may have (= perhaps he has) missed his train.
They may well win.
There is a range of programs on the market which may be described as design aids.
Topics Doubt, guessing and certainty A2
2 (formal) used to ask for or give permission
May I come in?
You may come in if you wish.
Which Word? can / may
3 used when admitting that something is true before introducing another point, argument, etc.
They may be well-meaning, but they are wrong.
Topics Opinion and argument B2
4 ​(formal) used as a polite way of making a comment, asking a question, etc.
You look lovely, if I may say so.
May I ask why you took that decision?
If I may just add one thing…
5 ​(formal) used to express wishes and hopes
May she rest in peace.
Business has been thriving in the past year. Long may it continue to do so.
​6 (formal) used to say what the purpose of something is
There is a need for more resources so that all children may have a decent education.
Grammar Point modal verbs
Idioms
be that as it may
may/might (just) as well do something