Basic Details
Word: May
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To be allowed to do something; expressing possibility.
Synonyms: Can, might, could
Antonyms: Cannot, must not
Idioms and Phrases
- May the best man win: A phrase used to wish everyone luck, especially in a competition. Example: "I was nervous about the race, but I told myself, may the best man win!"
- As you may know: A phrase often used to introduce information that the speaker believes the listener already understands. Example: "As you may know, the school will be closed for summer holiday next week."
Usage Examples
Example 1: You may join us for lunch if you finish your homework.
Example 2: The weather may change later, so we should bring umbrellas.
Example 3: If you study hard, you may achieve your dream of becoming a doctor.
Fun Fact
The word "may" comes from the Old English term "mg," which means "to be able." It has been in use for many centuries to express permission and possibility.
Famous Quote
"It is not enough to have great qualities; we should also have the management of them." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. (This relates closely to considering what one may or may not be able to achieve.)
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "may" mean?
a) To express a definite action
b) To be allowed to do something
c) To describe a place
d) To show a feeling
Answer: b) To be allowed to do something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "may"?
a) Should
b) Must
c) Can
d) Will
Answer: c) Can
3. What is the opposite of "may"?
a) Should
b) Cannot
c) Will
d) Could
Answer: b) Cannot
4. Which sentence uses "may" correctly?
a) She may go to the party if her parents let her.
b) He may ran very fast to win the race.
c) They may to eat the cake at the table.
d) We may sleeps during the movie.
Answer: a) She may go to the party if her parents let her.
5. Which idiom includes the word "may"?
a) May the best man win
b) May I have a word
c) May be rain tomorrow
d) May fly in the sky
Answer: a) May the best man win
