may · modal
may have
B2 used to talk about things that possibly happened in the past or might possibly have happened by a certain time in the future
Dictionary examples:
That may not have been Mike's brother you met - I think his cousin is staying with him at the moment. (11.9)
Helen may have already left by the time you arrive. (28.6)
The explosion may have been caused by a faulty electrical connection. (48.2)
may as well do sth
C1 used to suggest doing something when there is no reason you should not do it or there is no better thing to do
Dictionary examples:
If the stores are closed, we may as well go home. (25.7)
We may as well start the meeting - the others will be here soon. (26.5)
may (POSSIBLY HAPPEN)
A2 used to talk about what will possibly happen
Dictionary examples:
The teacher may give us ice cream instead of homework. (0.0)
I may win the lottery and buy a pet elephant. (0.0)
My phone may start telling jokes during the meeting. (0.0)
We may go to France later this year. (19.2)
The cause of the accident may never be discovered. (32.9)
I may see you tomorrow - it depends on when we leave. (37.0)
may (PERMISSION)
B1 used to ask or give permission
Dictionary examples:
May I borrow your superhero cape? I'm late for work. (0.0)
May I use your crystal ball? I can't find my phone. (0.0)
May I borrow your magic wand? I need to clean my room. (0.0)
You may begin. (5.7)
"May I help myself to some more food?" "Yes, of course." (8.1)
Hi, my name's Tiffany. How may I help you? (9.1)
May I be excused, please? (27.9)
may (POSSIBLY TRUE)
B1 used to talk about what is possibly true
Dictionary examples:
I may have accidentally eaten my homework instead of my sandwich. (0.0)
My cat may be plotting world domination while I'm at work. (0.0)
My computer may be secretly writing a novel about my life. (0.0)
I think I may be getting a cold. (12.9)
There may be other problems that we don't know about. (15.0)