Translation guide
The English phrase "may do" can express permission, possibility, or a suggestion. In Japanese, these are expressed with different grammar patterns, not a single word. This guide covers the most common ways to convey each meaning naturally.
Expressing that someone is allowed to do something.
The most common way to give or ask for permission. Attach to the te-form of a verb.
ここで写真を撮ってもいいですか。
May I take a picture here?
もう帰ってもいいよ。
You may go home now.
A slightly more formal or emphatic way to say 'it's okay if...'. Literally 'I don't mind if...'.
窓を開けても構いませんか。
May I open the window?
Very formal, often used in business or when granting permission to a subordinate.
ご自由にお取りになってよろしいです。
You may take one freely.
Expressing that something might happen or is possible.
The standard way to say 'might' or 'may'. Attach to the plain form of verbs, adjectives, or nouns.
明日は雨が降るかもしれない。
It may rain tomorrow.
彼は来ないかもしれない。
He may not come.
Literally 'there is a possibility that...'. More formal and often used in writing or news.
地震が起こる可能性があります。
There may be an earthquake.
Used for things that happen sometimes or occasionally. 'There are times when...'
たまに朝ごはんを食べないこともある。
I may skip breakfast sometimes.
Suggesting an action or offering an option, like 'you may want to...' or 'you could...'.
A common way to make a suggestion: 'How about doing...?' or 'You might want to...'.
少し休んだらどうですか。
You may want to rest a bit.
Used to suggest a course of action: 'You could just...' or 'It would be good if...'.
わからなければ、先生に聞けばいい。
If you don't understand, you may ask the teacher.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'may'. Always identify whether you mean permission, possibility, or suggestion, and use the appropriate grammar pattern.
✕ 写真を撮るかもしれません。 (for permission)
Incorrect for asking permission.