MAY

May is a modal verb that is used to show possibility. It can also be used to give or
request permission.
The difference between may and might is that may is more formal.
possibility
Mary may be at home, or perhaps at work.
give permission
Johnny, you may leave the table when you have finished your dinner.
request permission
May I use your bathroom?

Affirmative Sentences:

Sub + May + verb infinitive + complement

Examples:

I may visit Susan on Monday.

Carol may go when she finishes.
You may ask three questions.
I may finish tomorrow.
He may go to Paris tomorrow.

Negative Sentences:

Sub + May + not (mayn't) + verb infinitive +Complement

Examples:

Mr. Johnson may not remember anything.

You may not leave the classroom without permission.
May you take this to Mr. Richards?
It may not be true.
I may not work tomorrow.
It may not be a good idea.
He may not play in the street.

Interrogative

May +sub + verb + complement?

Examples:

May I go to the bathroom?

May I use your telephone?
May you tell me something?
May I ask you a question?
May we suggest something?
May they come to my house?

Exercises:

1)
2)

They

forgive me. ( -may )

MAY NOT

be in love. ( - may )

She
MAY NOT

I go with you? (question )

3)

MAY

4)

MAY

I listen to the radio? (question )

5) May Sheila stay at home?

(-)
6) I

7) We

NO, she
May not

May

MAY

go in Texas ( - may ).

Ski tomorrow. (+/may).