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To: TexasNative2000

Good morning,

I love this (can vs may) argument, if you will indulge me - how would you decide the following?

Can/May I have food served in the conference room?

Yes, you can/may make arrangements with the onsite cafe.

Professional guests can/may have their parking tickets validated.


“May” can easily be misunderstood. Do the sentences below indicate possibility or permission?

Professional guests may have their parking tickets validated.

Repeat visitors may receive a special discount.


Perhaps it is better to follow this simple rule.

If you intend “able to,” use can.
If you mean “will possibly,” or “permitted to,” use may.

Good fun


35 posted on 08/23/2008 8:59:14 AM PDT by Neuromancer
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To: Neuromancer
Professional guests may have their parking tickets validated.

You menan there are places that pay one to be a guest?

Where do I sign up?

65 posted on 08/23/2008 5:13:50 PM PDT by ApplegateRanch
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