题目

may 什么时候等于can

提问时间：2021-03-17

答案

We use "can" to indicate capability or possibility,
e.g. "I don't know if I can lift this piano by myself." The implication here is on whether you have the physical capacity or mental acuity to get the piano lifted.
"May" is used when you are asking permission,
"May I lift your piano for a little exercise?" Here you wish the permission of someone to carry out an action.