The spelling of the phrase "that may" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first word, "that," is pronounced with the voiced dental fricative /ð/ and the short vowel /æ/. The second word, "may," is pronounced with the long vowel /eɪ/ and the voiced velar approximant /j/. Together, these sounds combine to create the commonly used phrase "that may," which is often used to express uncertainty or possibility. Proper spelling of this phrase is essential for clear and effective communication.
The phrase "that may" is a combination of the pronoun "that" and the modal verb "may." Thus, it functions as a conditional phrase expressing possibility, likelihood, or probability. It indicates uncertainty or potential when used to refer to a situation, event, or action.
In this construct, "that" refers to a particular event, circumstance, or outcome that is under consideration, while "may" signifies the potential for that event or situation to occur. The phrase implies that there is a chance for a specific outcome or occurrence, although it does not guarantee its realization.
When used in conversation or written language, "that may" allows for speculation, offering a conditional perspective regarding the subject at hand. It denotes the presence of a plausible explanation, option, or choice. An example use of "that may" would be "The weather forecast indicates that it may rain tomorrow" or "The results of the test show that it may be a false positive."
Overall, "that may" is a phrase used to express possibility or likelihood while acknowledging a certain level of ambiguity or uncertainty. It is used to convey a situation, event, or outcome that is possible but not definite.
The phrase "that may" is not considered a word; rather, it is a combination of two separate words: "that" and "may". "That" is derived from the Old English word "þæt", which originated from the Proto-Germanic word "*þat". "May" has a more complex etymology, originating from the Old English word "mæg", which means "to be able to". It has connections to the Proto-Germanic word "*maganą" and ultimately to the Proto-Indo-European root "*magh-" meaning "to be able" or "to have power". When combined, "that may" simply refers to something that is possible or potentially achievable.