May and might: What’s the difference? — Explanation

You can learn the difference between "may" and "might" with simple rules and examples. Take our A2 English grammar test to improve your skills and boost your confidence!

What is the difference between "may" and "might"?

It's important to know the difference between "may" and "might" in everyday English. They both mean "possible," but they don't always mean the same thing.

May - A Better Chance

We say "may" when something is more likely to happen.

• She may come to the party. (Maybe she will come.)
• It may rain this afternoon.

Key point:
Use "may" when you think the chance is higher.

Might - A Less Likely Option

We use "might" when the chance is lower..

• He might join us later. (But we are not very sure.)
• I might buy a new phone next month.

Key point:
Might shows a smaller possibility.

May vs. Might – Simple Comparison

Form	Meaning	Chance Level	Example
may	stronger possibility	higher	She may call you today.
might	weaker possibility	lower	He might be late.

Questions and Negatives

In questions and negative sentences, both may and might are used the same way:

• May I borrow your pen? (Permission)
• It might not snow tomorrow.

Simple Tips for A2 Learners

• Use "may" when you think something is likely to happen.
• When you think something might happen but aren't sure, use might.
• Both can talk about what might happen in the future.
• The base form of the verb comes after both: may go, might see, may come.