Use of “I May + Verb” in English Speaking – Easy Rules, Examples and Practice

We use “I may + verb” when we talk about a possibility in the present or future. It shows that something is not certain, but it can happen. This structure is very common in daily English conversations. For example, if you are not sure about your plans, you can say, “I may visit my friend tomorrow.” If you are thinking about doing something, you can use “may” to express that idea politely and naturally. Native speakers often use this pattern in personal, social, travel, and work-related situations. Learning this structure will help you sound more natural and confident in English speaking.

◎ Important Points

  • Use may to talk about possibility.
  • After may, always use the base form of the verb.
  • Do not add to after may.
  • May can be used for present or future possibilities.
  • It shows uncertainty, not a fixed plan.
  • May is more polite and formal than some other modal verbs.
  • Use may when you are not completely sure about something.

Sentence Structure: Subject + may + Verb (Base Form) + Object/Other Information

Example: I may go to Delhi next week.

Main Concept:
Use “I may + verb” when there is a chance that something will happen, but you are not completely sure.

Speaking Tip:
Use “I may” in conversations when discussing future plans that are not confirmed.

Common MistakeWrong ExampleCorrect Example
Using “to” after mayI may to go there.I may go there.
Using verb with -ingI may going now.I may go now.
Using past verb after mayI may went home.I may go home.
Missing the main verbI may tomorrow.I may travel tomorrow.
Using double modal verbsI may can help you.I may help you.
  1. I may call you later.
  2. I may visit my grandparents this weekend.
  3. I may join the meeting tomorrow.
  4. I may buy a new phone next month.
  5. I may stay at home tonight.
  6. I may travel to Mumbai for work.
  7. I may watch a movie after dinner.
  8. I may meet my friend this evening.
  9. I may start a new project next week.
  10. I may go shopping after office hours.

A. Fill in the Blanks

  1. I may ______ you tomorrow. (call)
  2. I may ______ a new car next year. (buy)
  3. I may ______ at home tonight. (stay)
  4. I may ______ my uncle this weekend. (visit)
  5. I may ______ the meeting later. (join)

B. Change the Incorrect Sentence to Correct One

  1. I may to visit Delhi.
  2. I may going to school tomorrow.
  3. I may watched the match.
  4. I may can help you.
  5. I may to buy a laptop.

C. Speak These Sentences Aloud

  1. I may go for a walk this evening.
  2. I may call my friend after work.
  3. I may visit Jaipur next month.
  4. I may start learning a new skill.
  5. I may take a holiday soon.
I plan to + verb

Alok Kumar is an educational content creator, YouTuber, and English speaker dedicated to helping learners grow with clarity and confidence. Through his engaging videos and easy-to-understand teaching style, he simplifies complex topics and makes learning accessible to a wide audience.