What is May? Pronunciation and usage in English

May means . Learn how to pronounce and use May through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of May

Mayverb/noun

/meɪ/
Definition & pronunciation of May

The word "May" in English has a tricky pronunciation! Here's a breakdown:

  • Most Common Pronunciation (American English): /meɪ/ (rhymes with "day" or "say") - It's a long "a" sound, like in "say."

  • British English Pronunciation: /maɪ/ (rhymes with "eye") - This is the traditional British pronunciation.

Here's a simple breakdown to help you:

  1. Listen to Examples: The best way to learn is to hear it spoken. You can find examples on:

  2. Break it down:

    • "Ma": This part sounds like the "ma" in "mama."
    • "y": This is a diphthong - a combination of two vowel sounds – it sounds like the "i" in "eye."

Which one should you use?

  • If you're speaking in the US, the /meɪ/ pronunciation is almost always correct.
  • If you're speaking in the UK, the /maɪ/ pronunciation is generally preferred.

Do you want to practice saying it a few times?

Usage and examples with the word May in English

Let's break down how to use the word "May" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple functions! Here's a detailed explanation:

1. As a Verb – Meaning “To Be Permitted” (Most Common Use)

  • Form: “May” + base form of the verb (usually “be”)
  • Meaning: This is the most frequent way to use "may." It expresses permission.
  • Examples:
    • “You may leave the room.” (You are allowed to leave.)
    • “Students may use calculators on the test.” (Students are permitted to use calculators.)
    • “He may be late.” (He probably will be late, but it’s not certain.) - This is a conditional form, expressing possibility.

2. As an Interjection – Meaning "Oh" or "Excuse Me" (Formal)

  • Form: “May” (said politely)
  • Meaning: This is a more formal and slightly old-fashioned way to say “Oh” or “Excuse me.” It's often used when expressing surprise, regret, or when interrupting someone politely.
  • Examples:
    • “May I ask a question?” (A polite way to ask for permission to speak.)
    • “May I have another cookie?” (A polite request)
    • “May I suggest a different approach?” (Expressing an opinion politely)

3. As Part of the Phrase "May I...?” (Asking Permission)

  • Form: “May I...?” + verb
  • Meaning: This is a very common polite way to ask for permission.
  • Examples:
    • “May I borrow your pen?”
    • “May I sit here?”
    • “May I come with you?”

4. In the Expression "God Save the Queen/King" (or "May God Save...")

  • Form: “God save the [King/Queen]” or “May God save…”
  • Meaning: This is a traditional expression of goodwill and protection, wishing good fortune and safety on someone.

Important Nuances and Distinctions:

  • “May” vs. “Can” (for permission): “Can” is generally more informal and direct when asking for permission. "May" is usually more formal and polite.

    • “Can I go to the bathroom?” (Informal)
    • “May I go to the bathroom, please?” (More formal)

  • “May” vs. “Might” (for possibility): Both "may" and "might" are used to express possibility. "Might" is generally considered slightly less likely than "may."

    • “It may rain tomorrow.” (There’s a reasonable chance of rain.)
    • “It might rain tomorrow.” (It’s possible, but perhaps less likely.)

  • "May" and Conditional Tense: As mentioned before, "may" is often used in conditional sentences expressing uncertainty about the future. "May he be happy" - expresses a wish for his happiness.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted information, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you trying to do with the word “may”? (e.g., “I’m trying to use it correctly when asking for permission,” or “I’m confused about how it’s used in conditional sentences.”)

Synonyms for the word May

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