'May' and 'can' differences

Asked Nov 03 '20 at 11:09

Active Nov 03 '20 at 11:09

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What's the difference between may and can in the following context?

1- Our company has decided to organize a online quiz competition for students all over India on this Monday at 7:00 PM. Those who are interested may/can register their name online at www.xyz.com before Sunday.

asked Nov 03 '20 at 11:09

Badshah

2

In this particular example, there's essentially no difference. – KillingTime Nov 03 '20 at 11:19
Realistically, 'may' here can only have the deontic (for 'may', permissive) sense (you're allowed to). However, 'can' here may be synonymous (are allowed to) or have the epistemic/dynamic meaning (are able to). – Edwin Ashworth Nov 03 '20 at 11:44
Those who are interested may* register online. Or they may not.* – FumbleFingers Nov 03 '20 at 11:48
Thank you all. I have got an answer. – Badshah Nov 03 '20 at 12:14
If registering online is a prerequisite then they must register. – Weather Vane Nov 03 '20 at 12:27

'May' and 'can' differences

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