may not is not in our dictionary (yet). Here's what it could mean:
Confidence: high
Results generated using artificial intelligence.
verb phrase
- Used to indicate that someone is forbidden or not permitted to do something.
- Used to express the possibility that a particular event or situation will not occur.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It may or may not have been there when you first rented the car.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 21, 2026
“Something we may not be able to deter. Before this day is done, we shall be faced with an unthinkable decision.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 20, 2026
Thesaurus
Possible Synonyms
- might not
- must not
- should not
- is forbidden
- cannot