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can help vs may help

Both 'can help' and 'may help' are correct and commonly used phrases in English. They are often interchangeable, but 'can help' implies more of an ability or capability to assist, while 'may help' suggests a possibility or permission to provide assistance.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 759 views

can help

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use 'can help' when referring to someone's ability or capability to provide assistance. It implies that the person is able to help.

Examples:

  • I can help you with your homework.
  • She can help you find a solution to the problem.
  • Studies show that this can help with trauma-induced anxiety.
  • Parliament can help in showing the way.
  • Maybe that's where our Boer War veteran can help us.
  • I can help you with that.
  • I can help write some songs.
  • And I know you can help.
  • If my book can help criminologists deal intelligently...
  • But there are people that can help.
  • Mapping the connections within her brain mathematically... it can help millions of people.
  • I can help him, he can help me.
  • You can help people in a pharmaceutical plant.
  • She can help navigate international waters.
  • Hopefully we can help, Warden.
  • These surgeries can help some patients regain even limited mobility.
  • Often a comforting touch can help.
  • Intelligent traffic management systems can help to prevent unnecessary traffic.
  • European image and multimedia education programmes can help achieve this.
  • Clear labelling can help protect consumers from adverse reactions.
  • There are services that can help.
  • Maybe Lisa can help ease her fears...

Alternatives:

  • is able to help
  • is capable of helping
  • has the ability to help
  • is in a position to help
  • can assist

may help

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use 'may help' when suggesting a possibility or permission for someone to provide assistance. It implies that there is a chance or option for the person to help.

Examples:

  • I may help you with the project if I have time.
  • She may help us organize the event.

Alternatives:

  • might help
  • could help
  • is allowed to help
  • is permitted to help
  • is in a position to help

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