May and might are similar and can be used in various ways. Let’s take a look at each one in detail.
modal verb – may
You may use ‘may’ as a modal. Here are the ways in which ‘may’ may be used.
‘May’ can be used to show:
- permission (allow someone to do something)
- possibility (likelihood of something happening)
- probability (likelihood of something happening)
- request (ask for something)
Take a look at the pictures below, you’ll find the function of ‘may’ as a modal and examples in everyday use.
modal verb – might
You might have heard that ‘might’ is a modal too. Here are the ways which you might use ‘might’.
‘Might’ can be used to show:
- possibility/probability (likelihood of something happening)
- suggestion (offer a solution)
Take a look at the pictures below, you’ll find the function of ‘might’ as a modal and examples in everyday use.
modal verbs quiz – may & might
You may now take part in the quiz. You might find it difficult or you might think it’s a piece of cake. Let’s find out.
answers : 1. may/might not 2. May 3. may not 4. may/might as well 5. might 6. may/might 7. may/might not 8. May