this may take several minutes vs this can take several minutes

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey a similar meaning, indicating that something might require a few minutes to complete. The choice between 'may' and 'can' depends on the context and the level of certainty or possibility the speaker wants to convey.

Last updated: March 29, 2024

this may take several minutes

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a possibility or likelihood of something taking a few minutes.

This phrase is used to suggest that something is likely to require a few minutes to complete. It implies a possibility or likelihood of the time frame.

Examples:

This may take several minutes to download.
The repair may take several minutes to complete.

Alternatives:

this might take several minutes
this could take several minutes
this is likely to take several minutes
this is expected to take several minutes
this will probably take several minutes

this can take several minutes

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a possibility or ability for something to take a few minutes.

This phrase is used to suggest that something has the capability or possibility of taking a few minutes to complete. It implies the ability or potential for the time frame.

Examples:

This can take several minutes to process.
The task can take several minutes to finish.

Alternatives:

this is able to take several minutes
this has the potential to take several minutes
this is capable of taking several minutes
this is possible to take several minutes
this has the capacity to take several minutes

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this may take several minutes vs this can take several minutes