past might
ˈmīt
; present singular and plural may
1
a
—used to indicate possibility or probability
you may be right
things you may need
—sometimes used interchangeably with can… one of those slipups that may happen from time to time …—Jessica Mitford
—sometimes used where might would be expected… you may think from a little distance that the country was solid woods.—Robert Frost
b
: have permission to
you may go now
: be free to
… a rug … on which children may sprawl …—C. E. Silberman
—used nearly interchangeably with can
c
archaic
: have the ability to
2
—used in auxiliary function expressing purpose or expectation
I laugh that I may not weep
or contingencyshe'll do her duty come what may
or concessionhe may be slow but he is thorough
or choiceThe angler may catch them with a dip net, or he may cast a large, bare treble hook …—Nelson Bryant
3
—used in auxiliary function to express a wish or desire especially in prayer, imprecation, or benediction
may the best man win
Can vs. May: Usage Guide
Can and may are most frequently interchangeable in uses indicating possibility; because the possibility of one's doing something may depend on another's compliance, they have also become interchangeable in the sense that means "to have permission." The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts. May is relatively rare in negative constructions (mayn't is not common); cannot and can't are usual in such contexts.
1
: the fifth month of the Gregorian calendar
2
often may
: the early vigorous blooming part of human life : prime
3
: the festivities of May Day
4
may
a
: green or flowering branches used for May Day decorations
Cite this Entry
“May.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/may. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.
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