may

verb
UK: /meɪ/
US: /meɪ/

  1. Used to express possibility or uncertainty.

    1. It may rain later, so take an umbrella with you. [ ] [ ]
    2. Scientists believe that climate change may cause more extreme weather events in the future. [ ] [ ]

  2. Used to ask for or give permission.

    1. May I borrow your pen for a moment, please? [ ] [ ]
    2. Students may use their notes during the open-book exam according to the professor. [ ] [ ]

  3. Used to express a wish or hope.

    1. May you have a long and happy life together! [ ] [ ]
    2. May your hard work bring you the success and recognition you truly deserve. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

might could perhaps possibly
may noun

  1. A hawthorn flower, especially the white flowers of the hawthorn.

    1. The may was blooming beautifully in the hedgerows. [ ] [ ]
    2. In the countryside, the scent of the may fills the air during late spring and early summer. [ ] [ ]

  2. The month of May.

    1. May is my favorite month of the year. [ ] [ ]
    2. The wedding is scheduled for late May, hoping for pleasant weather conditions. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "may" in English means: Used to express possibility or uncertainty., Used to ask for or give permission., Used to express a wish or hope..

The phonetic transcription of "may" is /meɪ/ in British English and /meɪ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "may": might, could, perhaps, possibly.

Example usage of "may": "It may rain later, so take an umbrella with you.". More examples on the page.