Use may for permission. Use can for ability.

There is often confusion over the words can and may.

Can
The word can is used to denote ability.

 I can swim.

(I have the ability to swim.)

 Can he lift 150 kgs?

(Does he have the ability to lift 150 kgs?)

May
The word may is used to denote permission.

 You may swim in this river.

(You are allowed to swim in this river.)

 May I have a biscuit?

(Am I permitted to have a biscuit?)

Can for Permission (Informal Setting)

These days, however, the word can is used for both ability and permission, particularly in an
informal setting.

 You can swim in this river.

(You are allowed to swim in this river.)

 Can I have a biscuit?

(Am I permitted to have a biscuit?)

Always May for Permission in a Formal

Setting
In a formal setting or in polite company, you should use may to denote permission.

 May I leave the table?

(Am I permitted to leave the table?)

Select the correct version:

1
  Can / May I leave the table? (Alternative: Am I allowed to leave the table?)

2
  I say, can / may you catch the bus to town from the riverside pub? (Alternative: Does the
bus go to town from the riverside pub?)

3
  She can / may sing like an angel. (Alternative: She has the voice of an angel.)

AUXILIARY VERBS

Can is an auxiliary verb meaning to be able to. May is an auxiliary verb meaning to be
permitted to.

"Can I go outside, grandma?"

"You can, dear. You're just not allowed."