In this blog post, you will learn how to use the words “can” and “may” in simple English. These words help us ask for permission or talk about ability. Knowing the difference between them makes your speaking and writing more polite and correct.
What Are “Can” and “May”?
“Can” and “May” are modal verbs.
We use them to ask, give permission, or talk about ability.
Difference Between Can and May
| Modal Verb | Used For | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Can | Ability, Permission (informal) | I can swim. Can I go outside? |
| May | Permission (formal), Possibility | May I come in? It may rain today. |
Use of “Can”
-
Use “can” to show ability
→ When someone is able to do something
✔️ Example: I can ride a bike. -
Use “can” to ask for permission (informal)
→ Used with friends or family
✔️ Example: Can I play outside? -
Use “can” to give permission
✔️ Example: You can use my pen. -
Use “can” to offer help or request
✔️ Example: Can you help me?
Use of “May”
-
Use “may” to ask permission (formal and polite)
→ Used in schools, offices, or with elders
✔️ Example: May I go to the washroom? -
Use “may” to talk about possibility
→ Something that might happen
✔️ Example: It may rain today. -
Use “may” to give permission (formal)
✔️ Example: You may leave now.
Can vs May
| Use | Can | May |
|---|---|---|
| Ask permission | Informal → Can I go out? | Formal → May I go out? |
| Talk about ability | Yes → I can sing. | ❌ Not used for ability |
| Talk about possibility | ❌ Rarely used | Yes → It may rain. |
Tips to Remember
-
Use “can” with friends, family, and kids.
-
Use “may” in school, office, or formal talk.
-
“Can” = Ability
-
“May” = Possibility or Politeness
The use of “Can” and “May” is simple and useful. These words help you:
-
Talk clearly
-
Ask permission politely
-
Show your skills and actions
Mistakes with the use of Can and May
❌ Incorrect: Can I come in, sir?
✅ Correct: May I come in, sir?
Rule: Use “may” to ask formal permission.
❌ Incorrect: May you lift this box?
✅ Correct: Can you lift this box?
Rule: Use “can” to ask about ability or strength.
❌ Incorrect: Can it rain today?
✅ Correct: It may rain today.
Rule: Use “may” for possibility, not “can”.
❌ Incorrect: May you help me with this?
✅ Correct: Can you help me with this?
Rule: Use “can” to ask for help in normal conversation.
❌ Incorrect: May she swim fast?
✅ Correct: Can she swim fast?
Rule: Use “can” for skills or abilities.
❌ Incorrect: Can I go to the principal’s office?
✅ Correct: May I go to the principal’s office?
Rule: Use “may” when asking permission in school or formal places.
❌ Incorrect: I may run fast.
✅ Correct: I can run fast.
Rule: Use “can” to talk about personal ability.
❌ Incorrect: Can I leave now, teacher?
✅ Correct: May I leave now, teacher?
Rule: Use “may” to show respectful permission.
❌ Incorrect: It can be a holiday tomorrow.
✅ Correct: It may be a holiday tomorrow.
Rule: Use “may” to talk about something that might happen.
❌ Incorrect: May you play the piano?
✅ Correct: Can you play the piano?
Rule: Use “can” to ask about someone’s skill or talent.
Tip:
✔ Use “Can” when talking to friends or about skills.
✔ Use “May” when talking to teachers, elders, or in formal situations.
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