Writing Tip 31: “Might” vs. “May” (a.k.a. Here I come to save the day)
Today, let’s look at the proper uses of “might” and “may.” To narrow it down further, we’re going to focus on their uses in terms of possibility. Do know the difference implied in the following two statements?
“We might go to the party”; “we may go to the party.”
Both imply a chance, but one is a stronger chance. To help remember the difference, think of Mighty Mouse. When you see a superhero who is a mouse, you think there’s a very slim chance of him saving the day, right? If he were an alien from the planet Krypton, maybe, but a mouse? Seriously? This is the difference between “might” and “may.” Use “might” when there’s a possibility but a slim chance; Use “may” when there’s a stronger likelihood. If you “might” go to the party, no one will be holding their breath. If you “may” go, the host might add your favorite buffalo chicken dip to the spread just in case.
Of course, when we get into tense – “might have” being the past tense of “may” – we have a whole other discussion, but we’ll leave that to another day.
Happy writing, everyone.