May or might in English
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Sign up for freeThis chapter will explain the difference between the modal verbs 'may' and 'might'. Both of them are used to express a possibility or permission.
Lesson outline
HideDifference between may and might in English
The usage of the modal verbs 'may' and 'might' is similar. In many cases both of the modal verbs can be used, but sometimes one is more likely to be used.
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
| May is used to express a possibility that could be factual. |
|
| Might is used to express a possibility that is hypothetical. |
|
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Exercises
Exercise to fill in may or might in English
Choose between 'may' or 'might'.
Remember:
- 'May' is used to express a possibility that could be factual.
- 'Might' is used to express a possibility that is hypothetical.
She was wondering whether you be able to help her.
The phone be more expensive, but it's better than others.
He told me he go if he felt like it, but wasn't sure yet.
I join the drama club.
The second book be better than the first one.
I go out tonight?
The film win the award.
I use your pen please?
I think I stay at home to write some applications.
The teacher says we leave after we finished our homework.
Choose may or might in English
Choose between 'may' or 'might'.
Remember:
- 'May' is used to express a possibility that could be factual.
- 'Might' is used to express a possibility that is hypothetical.
Customers use the employee entrance in this case.
My mother said she go to the store tomorrow.
She arrive tomorrow by train.
You have told me. I came all this way for nothing.
She thought they be able to help you, but they were busy.
They go to a concert next week, Beyoncé is performing.
My boss asked me if I be able to work some extra hours.
Do you think it rain tomorrow?
Employees use their discount card when shopping at the store.
He not watch the game Sunday, because he has a dinner.
Exercises
Exercise to fill in may or might in English
Choose between 'may' or 'might'.
Remember:
- 'May' is used to express a possibility that could be factual.
- 'Might' is used to express a possibility that is hypothetical.
She was wondering whether you be able to help her.
The phone be more expensive, but it's better than others.
He told me he go if he felt like it, but wasn't sure yet.
I join the drama club.
The second book be better than the first one.
I go out tonight?
The film win the award.
I use your pen please?
I think I stay at home to write some applications.
The teacher says we leave after we finished our homework.
Choose may or might in English
Choose between 'may' or 'might'.
Remember:
- 'May' is used to express a possibility that could be factual.
- 'Might' is used to express a possibility that is hypothetical.
Customers use the employee entrance in this case.
My mother said she go to the store tomorrow.
She arrive tomorrow by train.
You have told me. I came all this way for nothing.
She thought they be able to help you, but they were busy.
They go to a concert next week, Beyoncé is performing.
My boss asked me if I be able to work some extra hours.
Do you think it rain tomorrow?
Employees use their discount card when shopping at the store.
He not watch the game Sunday, because he has a dinner.