may

Universal Words modal verb, noun modal verb (negative may not, rare short form past tense mayn't ) 1 used to say that sth is possible: That may or may not be true. * He may have (= perhaps he has) missed his train. * They may well win. * There is a range of programs on the market which may be described as design aids. 2 used when admitting that sth is true before introducing another point, argument, etc: He may be a good father but he's a terrible husband. 3 (formal) used to ask for or give permission: May I come in? * You may come in if you wish. -< CAN 4 (formal, spoken) used as a polite way of making a comment, asking a question, etc: You look lovely, if I may say so. * May I ask why you took that decision? * If I may just add one thing... 5 (formal) used to express wishes and hopes: May she rest in peace. * Business has been thriving in the past year. Long may it continue to do so. 6 (formal) used to say what the purpose of sth is: There is a need for more resources so that all children may have a decent education. -> MODAL IDIOMS be that as it may (formal) in spite of that SYNNEVERTHELESS: I know that he has tried hard; be that as it may, his work is just not good enough. noun [U] the white or pink flowers of the HAWTHORN