Key Difference

• Can is often used to talk about ability or capability.
• May is traditionally used to ask for or give permission.

Now, let’s break this down further.

1. Using Can for Permission

Although can is mainly about ability (like, “I can swim”), in casual conversation, people often use can to ask for permission. This usage is common and widely accepted in informal situations.

• Example:
  • “Can I go to the party?” (You’re asking if you’re allowed, even though you’re using “can,” which is technically about ability.)
  • “Can I borrow your pen?” (You’re really asking for permission.)

📝 While grammatically, can talks about ability, people use it in everyday conversation for asking permission, especially in casual settings.

1. Using May for Permission

May is the more formal, traditional way to ask for permission. It’s still used in polite requests or formal situations.

• Example:
  • “May I go to the party?” (This is a polite, formal way to ask.)
  • “May I borrow your pen?” (A bit more polite than can.)

May is also used to give permission:

• Example:
  • “Yes, you may.” (This is granting permission.)

When to Use Which?

• Use can in casual or everyday situations.
  • Asking a friend: “Can I borrow your book?”
• Use may in more formal or polite settings.
  • Asking a teacher or boss: “May I leave early today?”

Analogy to Remember the Difference

Think of can as the friendlier, laid-back option you’d use with close friends or family, while may is like wearing a suit—it’s a bit more formal and polished, perfect for important events or professional situations.

Practice Time! 📝

Fill in the blanks with can or may:

1. ______ I use your phone to call my mom?
2. Teacher, ______ I go to the bathroom, please?
3. I don’t know if you ______ leave early today. Ask the manager!
4. ______ you help me with my homework later?

Answers:

1. Can I use your phone to call my mom?
2. Teacher, may I go to the bathroom, please?
3. I don’t know if you can leave early today. Ask the manager!
4. Can you help me with my homework later?

Pro Tip 🌟

Remember:

• Can = casual permission or ability.
• May = polite or formal permission.