this may take some time vs this can take some time

Both phrases are correct and are commonly used in English. They convey a similar meaning, that something might need a certain amount of time. The choice between the word 'may' and the word 'can' depends on the context and the level of certainty or possibility the speaker wants to express.

Explained by Miss E.
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: September 16, 2024 • 18933 views

this may take some time

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something might require a certain amount of time.

This phrase is used to express a possibility or likelihood that something will take time. 'May' suggests a higher level of uncertainty compared to 'can.'

Examples:

This may take some time to complete.
The repair may take some time to finish.
The process may take some time to complete.

Show examples from the web [+]

All required information has now been gathered. Click "Next" button to start importing. Depending on size of the database this may take some time.
All required information has now been gathered. Click "Next" button to start importing. Depending on size of the tables this may take some time. You have chosen to import the following table:
I fear this may take some time.
Loading crash information... (this may take some time)
Loading information from new files Depending on the number of images, this may take some time. However, there is only a delay when new images are found.
This may take some time, sir.
Please wait while your F-Spot gallery's database is updated. This may take some time.
The music data cache has been corrupted. JuK needs to rescan it now. This may take some time.
To execute your search all messages of the folder %1 have to be downloaded from the server. This may take some time. Do you want to continue your search?
This may take some time.
This first one may take some time.
Please note that this procedure may take some time and you could be charged a fee for the information.
As this process may take some time, it may be necessary for the Commission to propose that the agreement be provisionally applied pending its entry into force.
The BAU is working an active case, so this interview process may take some time.
It is also important for the future for us to look at the prospect of having own resources of a real nature, although this may still take some time yet.
The last icon in the toolbar lets you change your collection setup. Note that if you change any folders, & amarok; will automatically rescan your collection - this may take quite some time if you have many tracks.
You have to realise that there is a real feeling of discontent in developing countries, and that any attempt to restart the process must necessarily involve repairing the damage caused in this area, which may take some time.
Well, that may take some time to coordinate with our school security.
So, Prudie's recovery may take some time.
Flushing the cache may take some time.

Alternatives:

This might take some time
This could take some time
This is likely to take some time
This is expected to take some time
This will probably take some time

this can take some time

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something is capable of taking a certain amount of time.

This phrase is used to express a possibility or capability that something will take time. 'Can' suggests a slightly higher level of certainty compared to 'may.'