Key Difference:

• May is generally used for possibilities that are more likely or when we’re expressing polite permission.
• Might is used for possibilities that seem less certain or unlikely.

1. Using May for Present Possibility

May suggests a reasonable chance of something happening and can sound more formal. Think of may as indicating that something is likely, though not guaranteed.

Examples:

• “She may come to the meeting today.” (There’s a good chance she’ll come.)
• “It may rain this afternoon.” (There’s a likely possibility of rain.)

2. Using Might for Present Possibility

Might implies a lower probability, suggesting something is possible but not very likely. It’s often less formal than may and emphasizes uncertainty.

Examples:

• “He might join us later, but he’s not sure.” (There’s a chance, but it’s not very likely.)
• “I might go to the gym today if I have time.” (It’s possible, but you’re not fully committed.)

Summary of Differences

A Helpful Analogy

Think of may as a sunny day with a few clouds – it looks like it might rain but it’s mostly clear, so rain is probable. On the other hand, might is like seeing just a small cloud in the distance – rain is possible, but you’d be surprised if it happened!

Common Mistakes and Tips

• May vs. Might in Permission: We often use may to politely ask or give permission, such as, “May I borrow your book?” In these cases, might wouldn’t fit.
• Using them interchangeably: While in casual conversation, may and might are sometimes used interchangeably, remember that may generally indicates a higher possibility than might.

Practice Exercises

Try these sentences! Fill in the blanks with may or might based on the degree of possibility.

1. “We _____ go to the concert if tickets are still available.”
2. “She _____ not be ready for the exam because she hasn’t studied much.”
3. “I _____ see you later if I finish my work early.”
4. “It _____ snow tonight according to the weather forecast.”

Answers:

1. may
2. might
3. might
4. may