This document discusses the difference between the words "may" and "might". It explains that "may" is used for situations that have a good chance of happening, while "might" is used for imaginary or unlikely situations. It provides examples of sentences using each word correctly. The document concludes with a quiz where the reader must identify whether each sample sentence should use "may" or "might".
2. We may eat out tonight.
If you buy that ticket, you might win a
million dollars!
What’s the difference in the following
two sentences?
3. So, what’s the difference?
Many native speakers will say there is no
difference, and that these words can be
used interchangeably; However …
4. … there is a difference!
“May” is used for situations that have a
good chance of happening.
“Might” is used for situations that are
imaginary or not likely to happen
5. Note:
“Might” is also used for conditional
sentences that are dependant on
another, previous action.
If I have time, I might help you.
Point: The speaker will help, but only if he has time.
6.
7. Let’s consider an example using
“may”
I think I may have to work overtime
tonight.
- We can use may because this is a very
realistic situation.
8. Here are some more “may” examples:
I may have time to help you later.
Bob and Sue may get married this year.
The children may get new bicycles this
summer.
9. Now, let’s consider an example using
“might”
If I get that job, I might buy a new house.
- We use “might” because this is an
imaginary or hypothetical situation. He/ she
does not yet have the job.
10. Here are some more “might” examples:
If our team gets that new player, we
might win the championship!
If you don’t work harder, you might lose
your job!
If you eat more protein, you might gain
weight.
11. “may” or “might” ?
1. I _______ buy a dog for my
children this weekend.
12. “may” or “might” ?
1. I may buy a dog for my
children this weekend.
13. “may” or “might” ?
2. They ______ move to
Australia if they get jobs there.
14. “may” or “might” ?
2. They might move to
Australia, if they get jobs there.