A21K

May

UK /["/meɪ/","/ˈmeɪ nɒt/","/ˈmeɪənt/","/maɪt/","/ˈmaɪt nɒt/","/ˈmaɪtnt/"]/US /["/meɪ/","/ˈmeɪ nɑːt/","/ˈmeɪənt/","/maɪt/","/ˈmaɪt nɑːt/","/ˈmaɪtnt/"]/

Definition

used to say that something is possible

In simple words: A month in spring.

Examples

  • We may go to the park if it stops raining.
  • You may want to consider a different approach for this project.
  • May I help you with your bags?
  • She was born in May, which is her favorite month.
  • There may be a chance of thunderstorms this evening.

Usage notes

Use 'May' when talking about the month in a date or events, but do not confuse with 'might', which expresses possibility.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

May sounds like 'may I?'—think of asking someone in spring if you can join their picnic.

Collocations

  • in May
  • May flowers
  • May vacation
  • May day
  • May calendar

Synonyms

  • might
  • could
  • mayhap

Antonyms

  • June
  • December

Common mistakes

  • Confused with the auxiliary verb 'may', especially in questions.
  • Incorrectly capitalizing 'may' when used in sentences as a verb.
  • Saying 'in May month' instead of just 'in May'.