Business English from All Ears English cover image

Business English from All Ears English

BE 365: Business Grammar that Might Be Confusing

Jan 26, 2025
Dive into the complexities of business grammar with a fun twist on 'may' vs. 'might.' Discover how these modal verbs express permission and possibilities differently, shaping your professional interactions. Explore the nuances of advanced conditional grammar, like 'might have' and 'could have,' to navigate missed opportunities. Hear practical examples that clarify their usage and the impact on effective communication. Plus, enjoy insights on regional differences and the power of modality in making confident statements!
16:13

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Quick takeaways

  • The distinction between 'may' and 'might' is crucial in expressing varying degrees of likelihood and permission in business communication.
  • Utilizing 'may' implies a stronger possibility, while 'might' conveys uncertainty, thus impacting clarity in professional conversations.

Deep dives

Understanding the Use of 'May'

'May' is primarily used in the present tense and often implies a higher likelihood of something occurring. It is used not only to express a possibility but also to request or grant formal permission. For instance, one might say, "I may join the meeting later," indicating there's a good chance of attendance. Additionally, when providing permission, phrases like "You may leave early" reflect this formal usage, distinguishing it from more casual expressions.

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