Short answer
Both “may” and “might” express possibility and are used in reported speech, but “might” often suggests more uncertainty or distance. Actual usage varies, and many speakers use them interchangeably for possibility, especially in informal contexts. 1 2 3
Both are modal verbs used for possibility and reported speech, but “might” is often perceived as more tentative or hypothetical.
On this page
At a glance
Scroll to compare all columns →
| Question | may | might |
|---|---|---|
| Expresses possibility? | Yes | Yes |
| Common in past reported speech? | Less common | More common |
The table summarizes the stated definitions and scope. 1 2 3
What each thing is
May. In contemporary US English, “may” is a modal verb used to express possibility, permission, or sometimes a wish, and is also used in reported speech to indicate that something is possible or allowed. 1 2
Might. “Might” is a modal verb that conveys possibility, often with a sense of uncertainty or tentativeness, and is also used in reported speech or to refer to past possibilities or polite requests. 1 3
Key differences
The main distinction is that “may” is often used for present or future possibility and permission, while “might” is frequently chosen for hypothetical, uncertain, or past situations, especially in reported speech. 1 2 3
How to tell them apart
To test usage, try substituting each in a sentence about possibility. If discussing a past event or a more tentative situation, “might” usually fits better. However, context and speaker preference often guide the choice. 1 3
Where they overlap
“May” and “might” overlap in expressing general possibility, and many speakers use them interchangeably in present or future contexts. The difference is often subtle and not always strictly observed. 1 2
Edge cases
Reported speech can preserve or shift the original speaker’s perspective. ‘He said he might come’ is a familiar past report, while a speaker can also say ‘He says he may come’ when the possibility remains current. The choice depends on timing and viewpoint as well as probability. 1 3
Why the distinction exists
Both words serve as modal verbs to express possibility, but “might” is also the past tense of “may”. Their roles have evolved, and current usage reflects flexibility rather than a strict historical distinction. 2 3
Common misconceptions
A common misconception is that “may” always signals a higher probability than “might”. In practice, speakers and sources disagree, and both can indicate similar degrees of possibility depending on context. 1
Examples
Consider: “She may join us later” versus “She might join us later.” The first can sound slightly more confident, but both express uncertainty. The difference is subtle and often depends on speaker intent. 1 2
Sources
Sources checked October 3, 2026.
- Cambridge Dictionary — May Vs Might usage guide. Usage guide: definitions, examples and exceptions.
- Merriam-Webster — May Definition & Meaning. Dictionary entry: definitions, usage examples and word history.
- Merriam-Webster — Might Definition & Meaning. Dictionary entry: definitions, usage examples and word history.