MAY Meaning and
Definition
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May is a versatile word with multiple definitions depending on its usage. As an auxiliary verb, it is mainly utilized to express possibility or probability, indicating that something could potentially happen or be true. It suggests a moderate level of uncertainty or chance. For instance, "It may rain later today," suggests that there is a chance of rain but it is not certain. Similarly, when used in a permissive context, "You may use my computer," it allows or grants permission for someone to do something. In this sense, "may" incorporates the concept of permission or authorization.
In addition, "may" is also employed to convey a polite request or expression of preference. For example, "May I ask you a question?" demonstrates the speaker's courteous approach in seeking permission to inquire. Moreover, "May I have a glass of water, please?" implies a polite and preferred choice. This usage of "may" reflects politeness and is often employed in formal settings.
Furthermore, "may" can be a noun, representing the fifth month of the calendar year. It is derived from the Latin "Maius" named after Maia, the goddess of growth and fertility in Roman mythology.
Overall, "may" serves various purposes depending on its usage, including expressing possibility, granting permission, making polite requests, and referring to the month of May.
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• The fifth month of the year.
• An auxiliary verb expressing liberty, desire, or wish; to be able; to be possible, as it may be so; to be permitted or allowed; to be by chance, as how old may he be.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MAY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for MAY
Etymology of MAY
The word "may" originated from the Old English word "mæg", which means "to be able to" or "have power to". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "magan", meaning "to be strong, to be able". This is further traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*magh-", which signifies "to be able, have power". The word "may" has remained relatively unchanged over time, with only minor variations in spelling and pronunciation.
Idioms with the word MAY
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may well
The idiom "may well" means that something is likely to happen or is very possible. It implies a high probability or good chance of occurrence.
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be that as it may
The idiom "be that as it may" is used to acknowledge a point or fact that has been mentioned, but to then proceed with one's own argument or viewpoint disregarding or minimizing the significance of that point. It suggests that despite the acknowledged statement or situation, one's own perspective remains unchanged or more important.
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sticks and stones may break my bones, (but words can never hurt me)
The idiom "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me" is a phrase used to convey resilience in the face of verbal or emotional attacks. It implies that physical harm caused by objects (sticks and stones) may cause pain, but the impact of hurtful words is minimal or non-existent. It encourages individuals to ignore negative comments or insults and not let them affect their emotional well-being.
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come what may
The idiom "come what may" means that regardless of the difficulties, challenges, or circumstances that may arise, a person is determined to persevere or accept the outcome without hesitation or fear. It implies a strong and unwavering commitment to facing or overcoming whatever comes their way.
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May I speak to ? Go to Could I speak to
The idioms "May I speak to?" and "Could I speak to?" are commonly used phrases used when making a phone call to ask to talk to someone. They are polite ways of requesting to have a conversation with a specific person on the other end of the line.
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Sticks and stones may break my bones
The idiom "sticks and stones may break my bones" is a phrase used to convey the message that verbal insults or words cannot cause physical harm or have a lasting impact on a person. It implies that one should not be affected or hurt by negative words or criticism.
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may the best man/person win!
The idiom "may the best man/person win!" is an expression used to express good sportsmanship and fair competition. It implies that, in a contest or competition, the most deserving or skilled individual should emerge victorious. It signifies a respectful acknowledgement that the outcome should be determined by merit and ability rather than favoritism or bias.
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May the best man win
The idiom "May the best man win" is used to express the idea that regardless of competition or conflict, the outcome should be determined by the most deserving or skilled individual. It implies a fair and unbiased competition where the most competent person is encouraged to succeed.
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to whom it may concern
The idiom "to whom it may concern" is a formal expression typically used at the beginning of a letter or document when the recipient's name or identity is unknown. It is a way of addressing a general audience or unspecified individuals who may have an interest or involvement in the content of the communication.
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sell in May and stay away
The idiom "sell in May and stay away" advises investors to sell their stocks or investments in the month of May and stay away from the market during the summer months. This belief is based on the historical trend of stock markets performing relatively poorly during the summer season. It suggests that investors should take profits in May, as a precautionary measure, and wait to re-enter the market after the summer period.
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He who fights and runs away, may live to fight another day
The idiom "He who fights and runs away, may live to fight another day" means that sometimes it is wise to avoid a conflict or escape from a dangerous situation in order to have the opportunity to return and confront the challenge or enemy later when the odds may be more favorable. It emphasizes the idea of preserving oneself or one's resources in order to have a better chance of success in the future.
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if I may be/make so bold (as to)
The idiom "if I may be/make so bold (as to)" is a polite way of asking permission to say something or make a suggestion that may seem audacious or forward. It is used when someone wants to express an opinion or offer advice but wants to do so with caution or humility.
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How may I help you?
The idiom "How may I help you?" is a polite and common expression used by service-oriented professionals, such as customer service representatives or salespeople, to inquire about the assistance or support a person needs. It is a way of inviting and offering assistance, often used when interacting with customers or individuals seeking help or information.
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let the chips fall (where they may)
The idiom "let the chips fall (where they may)" means to allow events to unfold naturally, without trying to control or manipulate the outcome. It suggests accepting the consequences or results of a situation, regardless of whether they are favorable or unfavorable. In essence, it implies refraining from interfering or attempting to influence the course of events and simply accepting the outcome.
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Gather ye rosebuds while ye may.
The idiom "Gather ye rosebuds while ye may" means to seize the opportunities and enjoy the pleasures of life while you still can, as time is fleeting and one should take advantage of the present moment.
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April showers bring May flowers.
The idiom "April showers bring May flowers" means that difficult or unpleasant experiences in the present can lead to positive and fruitful outcomes in the future. It suggests that perseverance and enduring hardships will result in eventual rewards and success.
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May the best man/woman win.
The idiom "May the best man/woman win" is an expression used to declare fair competition or a contest, where the speaker wishes success for all participants but ultimately believes that the most deserving or skilled individual should prevail. It emphasizes the idea of fair play and acknowledging the merit of the winner, regardless of personal biases or preferences.
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may as well
The idiom "may as well" means that it is just as good or acceptable to do a particular thing, often as an alternative or conclusion, even though it may not be the ideal choice.
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may/might as well
The idiom "may/might as well" means to do something because there is no better alternative or because the situation leaves no other choice, even though the action may not be ideal or necessary. It implies that the proposed action is the most reasonable or logical option given the circumstances.
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may I ask
The idiom "may I ask" is used as a polite way to request permission or seek clarification before asking a question. It acknowledges that the speaker wants to inquire about something but acknowledges that they should seek permission to proceed with their query.
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try as I may
The idiom "try as I may" means to make great efforts and do one's best to accomplish something, even though the outcome might be uncertain or difficult to achieve.
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be it as it may
The idiom "be it as it may" means that regardless of any opposing or conflicting factors or arguments, the situation or statement being discussed remains true or valid. It implies acceptance or acknowledgment of the circumstances without further argument or discussion.
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devil may care
The idiom "devil may care" refers to a carefree, reckless, or unconcerned attitude or behavior. It suggests a disregard for consequences or potential dangers.
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as the case may be
The idiom "as the case may be" is used to acknowledge that depending on the specific situation or circumstances, different possibilities or options may apply. It implies that the course of action, decision, or outcome will depend on the particular case or scenario at hand.
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as luck may have it
The expression "as luck may have it" means that something happens entirely by chance or coincidence, often referring to a fortunate or unfortunate outcome. It suggests that the outcome is not a result of deliberate action or planning, but rather due to sheer luck or happenstance.
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sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me
The idiom "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is a phrase that implies that physical harm caused by objects (sticks and stones) can cause pain, but verbal abuse or insults cannot. It is a message of resilience and strength, encouraging individuals to not let words or insults affect their emotional well-being.
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you may well ask
The idiom "you may well ask" is used to acknowledge that a question being asked is difficult or complex and warrants a thoughtful response. It implies that the answer is not obvious and often expresses a sense of uncertainty or surprise.
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a cat may look at a king
The idiom "a cat may look at a king" means that even someone of low status or power has the right or freedom to observe or scrutinize someone of higher status or power. It conveys the idea that everyone is entitled to their own opinions, observations, or curiosities, regardless of their social standing.
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sell in May and go away
"Sell in May and go away" is a financial idiom that suggests investors should sell their holdings in the stock market in May and reinvest only after the summer months, typically in September or October. The saying implies that during the summer months, stocks generally underperform compared to the rest of the year. The idea behind this strategy is to avoid potential market volatility and negative trends that may arise during this period.
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well may you ask, at you may well ask
The idiom "well may you ask, or at you may well ask" is a phrase used to acknowledge that a question being asked is indeed a valid one or one that many people would ask under the given circumstances. It implies that the question is deserving of an answer or is thought-provoking. It is often used to express surprise, curiosity, or mystification.
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may the Force be with you
The idiom "may the Force be with you" is a phrase often used as a way of wishing someone good luck, encouragement, or protection. It originates from the Star Wars film franchise, where "the Force" represents a mystical energy that certain characters can tap into for guidance, strength, and power.
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Young men may die, but old men must die
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May I be excused?
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a fool may give a wise man counsel
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(you, etc.) may/might as well be hanged/hung for a sheep as (for) a lamb
This idiom means that if one is going to be punished or suffer negative consequences for a small offense, they may as well commit a larger offense since the punishment will be the same. It is often used to imply that if one is going to incur a certain level of risk or penalty, they may as well take full advantage of the situation.
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let the chips fall (where the may)
To "let the chips fall where they may" is to allow events to unfold without trying to control or influence the outcome. It means accepting whatever happens, whether it is good or bad, instead of trying to manipulate or change the situation.
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devil-may-care attitude
A devil-may-care attitude is a carefree or reckless attitude, typically characterized by a lack of concern for consequences or potential risks.
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may/might as well be hanged/hung for a sheep as a lamb
The idiom "may/might as well be hanged/hung for a sheep as a lamb" means that if someone is going to be punished or blamed for something, they might as well do something more serious or extreme while they are at it, since the punishment or consequences will be the same regardless. It implies that taking a bigger risk may not have a significantly worse outcome than taking a smaller risk.
Similar spelling words for MAY
- may 1,
- maui,
- MAU,
- ma,
- MAIO,
- Mahi,
- Mayhue,
- M,
- MAH,
- maheu,
- maw,
- Mai,
- Maye,
- maoi,
- may 24,
- mahoe,
- Mae,
- mayhaw,
- mao,
- maha,
- maia,
- maya,
- mayo,
- Mayhew.
Conjugate verb May
CONDITIONAL
I
would may
you
would may
he/she/it
would may
we
would may
they
would may
CONDITIONAL CONTINUOUS
I
would be maying
you
would be maying
he/she/it
would be maying
we
would be maying
they
would be maying
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have may
you
would have may
he/she/it
would have may
we
would have may
they
would have may
CONDITIONAL PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
would have been maying
you
would have been maying
he/she/it
would have been maying
we
would have been maying
they
would have been maying
FUTURE
I
will may
you
will may
he/she/it
will may
we
will may
they
will may
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be maying
you
will be maying
he/she/it
will be maying
we
will be maying
they
will be maying
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have mayed
you
will have mayed
he/she/it
will have mayed
we
will have mayed
they
will have mayed
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been maying
you
will have been maying
he/she/it
will have been maying
we
will have been maying
they
will have been maying
IMPERATIVE
you
may
we
let´s may
to may
PAST
I
mayed
you
mayed
he/she/it
mayed
we
mayed
they
mayed
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was maying
you
were maying
he/she/it
was maying
we
were maying
they
were maying
PAST PARTICIPLE
might
mayed
PAST PERFECT
I
had mayed
you
had mayed
he/she/it
had mayed
we
had mayed
they
had mayed
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been maying
you
had been maying
he/she/it
had been maying
we
had been maying
they
had been maying
PRESENT
I
may
you
may
he/she/it
may
we
may
they
may
he/she/it
mays
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
you
he/she/it
we
they
I
am maying
you
are maying
he/she/it
is maying
we
are maying
they
are maying
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
maying
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have mayed
you
have mayed
he/she/it
has mayed
we
have mayed
they
have mayed
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been maying
you
have been maying
he/she/it
has been maying
we
have been maying
they
have been maying
SIMPLE PAST
I
might
you
might
he/she/it
might
we
might
they
might
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