Possibility: May, Might and Could helps you communicate about uncertain predictions and possible explanations. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can describe different degrees of present and future possibility.
- Recognise and build the form: may/might/could + base verb.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Possibility: May, Might and Could for uncertain predictions and possible explanations. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
It might rain later, so take an umbrella.
Use 'might' to express an uncertain future possibility.
The keys may be in the kitchen.
'May + base verb' expresses a possible explanation.
This plan could work if everyone cooperates.
'Could' can describe a possible outcome.
may/might/could + base verbKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- Use 'might' to express an uncertain future possibility.
- 'May + base verb' expresses a possible explanation.
- 'Could' can describe a possible outcome.
- Use 'might not' when a negative possibility is uncertain.
- Use 'may be' for a possible future situation.
Common mistakes
Not:It must rain later, so take an umbrella.
Use:It might rain later, so take an umbrella.
Use 'might' to express an uncertain future possibility.
Not:The keys must to be in the kitchen.
Use:The keys may be in the kitchen.
'May + base verb' expresses a possible explanation.
Not:This plan must work if everyone cooperates.
Use:This plan could work if everyone cooperates.
'Could' can describe a possible outcome.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
She ____ not know about the change yet.
might
Use 'might not' when a negative possibility is uncertain.
There ____ be delays during rush hour.
may
Use 'may be' for a possible future situation.
One possible cause ____ be a faulty cable.
could
'Could be' introduces one possible explanation among others.