Module 4: Mastering Modal Verbs - Lesson 4.3: Modal Verbs of Possibility: MAY and MIGHT

Module 4: Mastering Modal Verbs - Lesson 4.3: Modal Verbs of Possibility: MAY and MIGHT

Lesson 4.3: Modal Verbs of Possibility - MAY and MIGHT

In this lesson, we will explore two key modal verbs used to express possibility in English: MAY and MIGHT. These modals indicate that something is possible, but not certain. They are essential for expressing uncertainty, speculation, and varying degrees of likelihood about events in the present and future.

MAY - Expressing Possibility (and Permission - Later)

MAY is a modal verb primarily used to express possibility. It suggests that there is a chance that something could happen or be true. "May" can also express permission, but in this lesson, we will focus on its use for possibility. We will cover permission in a later lesson.

Key Uses of MAY (Possibility):

  • Expressing Possibility in the Present or Future: To indicate that something is possible or likely to happen or be true.
  • Formal Possibility: "May" often sounds slightly more formal than "might" in expressing possibility.

Forming Sentences with MAY (Possibility):

The structure is:

Formula: Subject + may + Base Verb

Examples of MAY (Possibility) in Use:

  • Expressing Possibility in the Present or Future:
    • "It may rain later today." (Expressing possibility of rain - uncertain weather forecast)
    • "I may go to the cinema tonight." (Expressing possibility of going to cinema - undecided plan)
    • "She may be late for the meeting." (Expressing possibility of lateness - due to traffic, etc.)
    • "They may win the competition." (Expressing possibility of winning - chance of success)
    • "The information may be incorrect." (Expressing possibility of inaccuracy - uncertain information)

Negative and Question Forms of MAY (Possibility):

For negative and question forms with "may":

  • Negative: Subject + may not + Base Verb (e.g., It may not rain, She may not come) - Contraction: There is no common contraction for "may not". "May not" is used in both formal and informal contexts.
  • Question: May + Subject + Base Verb? (e.g., May it rain? May she come?) - Question form is less common for possibility, more common for permission (which we will cover later). For possibility questions, "Might" or "Could" questions are often preferred.
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