What is the difference between May and Might? - ProProfs Discuss
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What is the difference between May and Might?

What is the difference between May and Might?

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Asked by Demi , Last updated: Nov 09, 2024

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2 Answers

N. Jarah

N. Jarah

N. Jarah
N. Jarah

Answered Jul 01, 2020

Both of these words mean the same thing. May can be considered as the replacement for the old age word might. In the Victorian and Shakespeare era, English speaking was very hoity-toity, as it was spoken by higher society. The word might also have a completely different meaning than the word may, which is it could be or can I.

The other meaning might demonstrate strength and ability. However, the word may be short, accessible, and practical. May also has another meaning, which is month five of the year. While May is the popular form of speaking, it might be better left for prose and poetry. You could say that might maybe better.

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M. Delilah

M. Delilah

M. Delilah
M. Delilah

Answered Jul 01, 2020

The words may and might are very similar words, and they do not really have much grammatical difference. Most times, you can use the word may for might, and also use the word might for may. There will be no grammatical mistakes in doing such in most sentences, though there are exemptions. Actually, the word may is the present tense form, while it might is the past tense form. Still, you can use them for each other in most cases. One major exemption where you can use these words interchangeably is when you are asking questions. It will most likely be wrong, asking a question starting with the word 'might.'

For example, it would be wrong to say, "might I have a talk with you?" Instead, it would be correct to say, "May I have a talk with you?" Hence, when it comes to asking questions, you are meant to use the word "may," which will definitely be correct.

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