What is the difference between may and shall

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. Written by : Celine. User assumes all risk of use, damage, or injury. You agree that we have no liability for any damages. Both terms express a future action and practice. It can be used with a singular or plural number of subjects.

When used in the second and third person, the term implies a conviction in terms of promises, commands, or compulsions. One common denominator is the use of both terms under the context of a possibility. Also, there is a note of obligation in the usage of both verbs. This is the main difference between the two words. Through this article let us comprehend the difference through examples. Shall is a modal auxiliary verb in the English language.

These do not have to be conjugated in accordance to the subject of the sentence and remains the same, whether the subject is plural or not. It is also used to denote a wish or hope. Difference between Shall and May. Key Difference: Shall is generally used to express an intended provision in the form of offers or suggestions. On the other hand, may is generally used to express possibility or permission.

Shall is considered to be more formal than may. Shall is also comparatively more old-fashioned. However, both are used to denote propositions about the future. According to Dictionary. Times may change but human nature stays the same. I must remember to send a birthday card to my Dad. He must study harder if he wants to pass the exam. We must get to the airport two hours before the flight. Passengers must not lean on the doors.

What time must we leave? Not later than 2pm. Must he make so much noise? Why must the children do so much homework? What must you wear at work? Who must we call for an appointment? Its structure is the same as any normal verb: Here are some examples of affirmative sentences: I have to email the supplier before he sends the goods.

We have to do the shopping because the cupboards are empty. You have to practice if you want to be fluent. Motorcyclists have to wear a helmet. Here are some examples: What time do you have to start work? Does he have to wear a suit to work? Do I have to bring some form of ID? What do we have to do now?