may – to be allowed to
The use of may and to be allowed to
We substitute may with to be allowed to. The modal may can only be used with the Simple Present.
1. Affirmative sentences
Modal |
Substitute |
Tense |
I may play football. |
I am allowed to play football. |
Simple Present |
not possible |
I was allowed to play football. |
Simple Past |
not possible |
I will be allowed to play football. |
will-future |
There are also other tenses possible, e.g. Present Perfect: I have been allowed to play football.
2. Negative sentences
Modal |
Substitute |
Tense |
I may not play football. |
I am not allowed to play football. |
Simple Present |
not possible |
I was not allowed to play football.
|
Simple Past |
not possible |
I will not be allowed to play football. |
will-future |
3. Questions
Modal |
Substitute |
Tense |
May he play football? |
Is he allowed to play football? |
Simple Present |
not possible |
Was he allowed to play football?
|
Simple Past |
not possible |
Will he be allowed to play football? |
will-future |