may
- Top 1000
Sense 1
- noun
- A1
the fifth month of the year, between April and June
The apple trees behind the house are covered in blossom in May.
We moved into our new flat at the start of May.
In May the sea here is still far too cold for swimming.
Common collocations: in May · early May · late May · the first of May · last May
Part of: Days and months, Weather
Sense 2
- verb
- B1
used to say that something is possible but not sure
Take an umbrella, it may rain later this afternoon.
She may not know that the meeting was moved.
The mountain road may be closed after such heavy snow.
Common collocations: may well · may not · it may be · may happen
Part of: Attitudes and opinions, Talking to people
Sense 3 · less common
- verb
- A2
used to say that someone is allowed to do something, or to ask politely for permission
May I ask you a quick question before you leave?
Students may use the reading room until eight in the evening.
You may take one biscuit, but not the whole box.
Common collocations: may I · you may · may I ask · may I come in
Part of: Talking to people, School and teaching