In english grammar, modal auxiliary verbs are used to express modality. In language, modality is a term by which possible situation is explained by speaker in terms of positive or negative degree of possibility to obligation. Modal auxiliary verbs are originated out of these and classified to function as per situation. Here, I’m going to explain can and may modal auxiliaries differences.
Simply all modal verbs express modality like possibility, permission, obligation, and ability in negative or positive way.
But, modal verbs do not conjugate as per the tense and person like primary auxiliaries.
Functions of can and may modal auxiliaries.
To express ability, possibility, and permission, “Can” modal auxiliary is used. On the other hand, to express stronger permission, factual possibility, and wish may modal plays important role.
Use of “can” modal verbs to express ability
- Alex can design website anyways.
- Swimming in the sea water is a herculean task for me but not for my brother Max. He can swim in any waters.
- Really, he is a master rider, as he can ride safely through the crowded roads.
Here, can design, can swim, can ride are abilities shown by “Can” modal.
Most importantly, modal verbs do not conjugate like primary auxiliaries, nor take conjugated forms of main verbs but just transfer the meaning of main verbs.
In the above examples, design, swim, ride are main verbs without conjugated forms.
Theoretical vs factual possibility
- The river water can damage bridge. (It is not damaged yet, and there is evidence to happen so)
- Oh! The river water is crossing danger mark, and it is possible that it may damage bridge soon.
“Can” modal auxiliary verb is used to express theoretical possibility, whereas “may” modal expresses factual possibility.
Stronger Vs weaker and formal Vs informal permission
Permission includes both to ask for or to grant somebody.
- Your duty is over. Now, you can go.
- Do you know that you are too late? So, you can’t continue.
- Sir, I have submitted my application. Can I go now?
- Ok. my work is done. He may go now.
- She cannot leave without completing his job.
- I know how to make drawing. May I help you?
“May” modal auxiliary verb is more preferred in terms of permission than “Can”. It is stronger and more formal compare to “Can”.
So, in day-to-day interactions, “may” modal verb is more preferred to “can”. In the next blog, I will bring another modal verb for discussion.
However and nevertheless conjunctions
Modal auxiliary verbs explained
Will shall would & should modal verbs