May vs Might
What’s the difference between them?
May
Meaning:
indicates possibility; is used to express less uncertainty.
Examples:
1. She may attend the party tonight.
2. The weather forecast suggests it may rain later.
3. If you finish your work early, you may leave early.
Might
Meaning:
indicates possibility; is used to express more uncertainty.
Examples:
1. He might join us for dinner if his schedule allows.
2. It might snow in the mountains this weekend.
3. I might consider your proposal if you provide more details.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
May
1. Could
2. Might
3. Must
4. Would
5. Could have
6. Might have
1. Cannot
2. Must not
3. Will not
Might
1. May
2. Could
3. Possibly
1. Will
2. Must
3. Definitely
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "May", "Might".
1. 'May' is used to express less uncertainty.
2. 'Might' is used to express more uncertainty.
3. When unsure, using 'Might' is the safer option.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the word 'may' be used?
The word 'may' is used to indicate a possibility or a permission. It is often used in questions as an option or an opportunity. For example, 'May I have a cookie?' or 'He may come to the party if he has time.'
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'might'?
The word 'might' is used to indicate a slightly less likely possibility than 'may'. It is usually used to express a hypothetical situation, or a lesser probability. For example, 'We might go to the movies tonight if the weather is nice' or 'He might win the lottery if he buys a ticket.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the word 'may' is pronounced as /meɪ/, while 'might' is pronounced as /maɪt/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using 'may' and 'might' is confusing them, either using 'may' when they should use 'might' or vice versAdditionally, people may incorrectly use 'can' instead of 'may' when asking for permission, or 'could' instead of 'might' when talking about hypothetical situations.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I ____ go on vacation this summer, but Im not sure yet.
2. ____ I borrow your pen?
3. I was worried the project would be too difficult, but it ____ be simpler than I thought.
4. It ____ rain this weekend, so grab your umbrella!
5. She ____ have been at the party, but I didnt see her.
6. ____ you please pass me the salt?
1. Might
Explanation: The word might indicates possibility, and in this instance, the speaker is uncertain whether or not they will go on vacation in the summer.
2. May
Explanation: The word may is used to ask for permission, so in this sentence it is appropriate to use this word to ask if the speaker can borrow the pen.
3. Might
Explanation: This sentence is talking about possibility, so the word might is the most appropriate to use in this context.
4. Might
Explanation: The word might is used to indicate possibility, which is needed in this sentence.
5. Might
Explanation: The word might is used to indicate possibility, which is needed in this sentence.
6. May
Explanation: The word may is used to ask for permission, so it is the most appropriate word to use in this sentence to ask for the salt.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.