Basic Details
Word: May
Part of Speech: Verb (also can be used as a noun when referring to the month)
Meaning: To be allowed to; to have the possibility of doing something.
Synonyms: Could, might, be permitted
Antonyms: Must not, cannot
Idioms and Phrases
- As you may know: Used to introduce information that is expected to be known by the listener. Example: "As you may know, the exam is next week."
- May the best man win: A phrase used to express that the most deserving person should succeed. Example: "During the competition, they shook hands and said, 'May the best man win!'
Usage Examples
Example 1: You may join us for the picnic if you finish your homework early.
Example 2: She said I may borrow her book for a week, which made me very happy.
Example 3: They may have a school trip next month if the weather is nice.
Fun Fact
The word "may" comes from the Old English word "mg," which means "to be able to." Its usage has evolved, but it has always conveyed a sense of permission or possibility.
Famous Quote
"You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result." - Mahatma Gandhi
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "may" mean?
a) To not be allowed
b) To be permitted to do something
c) To definitely do something
d) To always succeed
Answer: b) To be permitted to do something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "may"?
a) Might
b) Must
c) Will
d) Should
Answer: a) Might
3. Which sentence uses "may" correctly?
a) You may eat dessert before dinner.
b) You may threatened to quit.
c) You may running to school every day.
d) You may finish early before going home.
Answer: a) You may eat dessert before dinner.
4. Which idiom expresses the idea of "may" in a competition?
a) As you may know
b) May the best man win
c) May your dreams come true
d) May I help you?
Answer: b) May the best man win
5. What is an antonym of "may"?
a) Might
b) Must not
c) Could
d) Should
Answer: b) Must not
