Use “may” to express permission, possibility, or a higher degree of probability.
- Example: You may leave once the meeting ends.
- Example: It may rain tomorrow.
Key takeaways:
"May" is used for higher
"Might" indicates a lower probability or is used for suggestions and
Both words express possibility, but the degree of certainty differs slightly.
Part of the series Grammar Debugged—English for Devs
Understanding when to use "may" vs. "might" ensures clearer communication and helps you choose the right
"May" is a modal verb that conveys a higher probability or is used to express permission. When we use "may," we imply that something is more likely to happen or is allowed. It suggests a sense of permission or something that is more certain.
Pronunciation of "may":
"May" rhymes with "say" and "day."
Examples of "may":
You may leave once the bell rings. (Permission)
It may rain later this evening. (Higher possibility)
I may go to the event tomorrow. (Expressing future possibility)
To remember: "May" is more likely and is used for permission or a higher chance.
"Might" is a modal verb that indicates a lower probability or is used in hypothetical situations. It’s often used when the outcome is uncertain or when we want to suggest something that is possible but not guaranteed.
Pronunciation of "might":
"Might" rhymes with "light" and "flight."
Examples of "might":
She might join us at the concert, but she’s not sure. (Lower possibility)
I might go to the store later if I have time. (Uncertain future possibility)
You might want to bring an umbrella in case it rains. (Suggestion)
To remember: "Might" suggests less certainty and is used for uncertain possibilities or hypothetical situations.
May and might appear to be interchangeable, but they have distinct differences. Here are the key distinctions:
Aspect | May | Might |
Probability | "May" indicates a higher probability. | "Might" suggests a lower probability. |
Permission | "May" is used to ask for or grant permission. | "Might" is not typically used for permission. |
Suggestions/Hypotheticals | "May" isn’t commonly used in this way. | "Might" is more often used for suggestions or hypothetical situations. |
Formality | "May" is more formal, especially when granting permission. | "Might" is more casual and speculative. |
Fill in the blanks with "may" or "might":
She ______ come to the party if she finishes her work on time.
You ______ leave the classroom after the bell rings.
He ______ want to check the weather before leaving.
Using “may” instead of "might"
Using “might” instead of “may” for permission
Understanding the difference between "may" and "might" boils down to the level of certainty or permission. Use "may" for higher probabilities or permissions, and "might" for speculative situations or lower chances. Being mindful of these subtle distinctions can greatly improve your clarity and precision in communication.
"It may rain later," (higher probability, factual possibility)
"It might rain later," (lower probability, speculative possibility)
Match the examples that demonstrate the difference between "might" and "may":
You ___ leave once the bell rings.
may
She ___ want to join us, but she isn’t sure.
might
I ___ get some coffee later, but I’m not sure.
___ I borrow your car keys for a few minutes?
He ___ not be able to attend the meeting, but he is going to try.
We ___ suggest taking the train instead of driving.
They ___ not like the new design, but they haven’t said anything yet.
Master the nuances of grammar and elevate your writing skills with this comprehensive course: Grokking the Technical Writing Process.
Haven’t found what you were looking for? Contact Us
To enhance technical writing and minimize common grammar mistakes, continue exploring these topics:
Commonly confused words (homophones & similar-sounding words): These words sound alike but have different meanings and spellings.
Prepositions & usage differences: These words and phrases are often confused due to subtle contextual differences.
Punctuation & formatting: These involve rules for using dashes, abbreviations, and sentence structure.
Grammar & sentence structure: These deal with pronoun choices, verb usage, and comparison.
Free Resources