"Can" and "may" are both modal verbs in English, but they are used differently to express different meanings.
"Can": "Can" is a modal verb that is primarily used to indicate someone's ability, capability, or permission to do something. It is used to express what someone is physically or mentally capable of doing.
Examples:
- Ability: I can swim. (I have the skill to swim.)
- Permission: Can I borrow your pen? (Am I allowed to borrow your pen?)
"May": "May" is a modal verb that is used to express permission, possibility, or a polite request. It is often used to ask for or grant permission in a formal or polite context.
Examples:
- Permission: May I go to the restroom? (Is it permissible for me to go to the restroom?)
- Possibility: It may rain later. (There is a possibility that it will rain later.)
- Polite Request: May I have a glass of water, please? (A polite way of asking for a glass of water.)
In modern English, the distinction between "can" and "may" regarding permission has become less strict, and "can" is often used in informal situations to ask for permission. However, in more formal or polite contexts, "may" is still preferred for permission requests.
In summary:
- "Can" primarily focuses on ability and, informally, on permission.
- "May" primarily focuses on permission, possibility, and making polite requests.
Keep in mind that language usage can vary depending on context and formality, so it's important to consider the appropriate choice based on the situation.
