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

Question

I would be grateful if someone would explain the difference between "swimming can/may be dangerous".

Does this answer your question? Difference between "can" and "may". In the case of something like your "warning" message, there's no difference. — FumbleFingers, Nov 19 '20 at 13:42

score 0 · Answer 1 · answered Nov 19 '20 at 13:46

Strictly speaking, can refers to something being physically possible, while may implies permission or possibility. May is also softer and more polite.

For example: You can get sick by riding roller coasters. It is physically possible for you to get sick by doing that.

For example: "May I use the restroom?" Johnny asked the teacher. Yes, Johnny could have used can but if he did, the teacher could say, "I don't know if you can or not, Johnny. Would you like to demonstrate?" :)

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

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