may

S2 W1

BrE /meɪ/ AmE /meɪ/

auxiliary verb / modal verb en → es

1 PERMISSION [modal verb] A2

used to ask for or give permission to do something

pueden, podrían, se puede

  • may sb do sth
  • sb may do sth

Collocations may I ask a question? · you may leave now

  • May I use your phone?

    ¿Puedo usar tu teléfono?

2 POSSIBILITY [modal verb] A2

used to say that something is possible or allowed, but not certain

puede que, podría ser que, quizás

  • may sb do sth
  • sb may do sth

Collocations it may rain later · you may be right

  • It may take longer than expected.

    Puede que tarde más de lo esperado.

7 FORMAL REQUEST [modal verb] B2

used to make a formal request or suggestion in writing, especially in legal documents

se puede solicitar que, se puede pedir que

  • may sb do sth

Collocations the court may order a search of the premises · the company may request a meeting with shareholders

  • The judge may order a new trial.

    El juez puede ordenar un nuevo juicio.