May
/meɪ/
Definitions
2 meaningsUsed to express possibility, permission, or a wish.
/meɪ/
To express possibility or permission.
It may rain later this afternoon.
💡 Simply: It's like saying something *could* happen, is *allowed* to happen, or that you *hope* it happens. Like, "May I have a cookie?" means it's possible or you're asking permission to have one. Or, "May you be happy!" is you wishing happiness for someone.
👶 For kids: It means 'can' or 'is allowed to' or 'maybe'. Like, "May I go outside?" means you're asking if you are allowed to go outside.
More Examples
You may borrow my book if you promise to return it.
May your dreams come true!
How It's Used
"May I have a glass of water, please?"
"You may leave the room when you're finished."
The fifth month of the year, following April and preceding June, containing 31 days.
/meɪ/
The fifth month of the year.
My birthday is in May.
💡 Simply: It's one of the months of the year. It's after April and before June, and usually has nice weather.
👶 For kids: It's a month on the calendar! It's when flowers start to bloom.
More Examples
The weather is usually pleasant in May.
May is a popular month for weddings.
How It's Used
"May is the month of spring."
"We often have picnics in May."
From Middle English *mai*, from Old English *mæg*, *magon* (“to be able, be allowed”), from Proto-Germanic *maganą*, from Proto-Indo-European *magʰ- (“to be able, have power”).
Used since Old English, and its modal verb usage has remained relatively stable.
Memory tip
Think of 'maybe' - the most common usage of this word.