may i present

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may I present" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when introducing someone or something formally to an audience. Example: "Ladies and gentlemen, may I present our keynote speaker for the evening, Dr. Smith."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Today, may I present soap cutting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

May I present Venus and Juno?

The New York Times - Arts

May I present still another side gained from over 30 years in public relations?

The New York Times

Ladies and gentleman, may I present The Hobbit? Alas, I tanked playing The Hobbit and got completely schooled on Frogger.

Princeton University

– Glenn Collins LA Weekly: For your summer weekend drinking pleasure, may I present the Americano, courtesy of Patrick Comiskey.

The New York Times

Thanking you for your patience, ladies and gentlemen, may I present for your education and edification, "Cornish Monkfish tail, Cassoulet of Paimpol Beans, Shallot Purée and... .. - wait for it, now, wait for it - "Emulsion of Douglas Firs".

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

If I may, I presented on the last of these three, based on research CEB did in the past 18 months.

Forbes

May I still present such YSS courses for reinstatement purposes?

Yale University

In conclusion, may I observe that present company excepted, human rights lawyers and activists are not necessarily deserving of sainthood.

The Guardian

"Mr. President, may I then therefore present to you Kjartan Sekkingstad, who is now a free man," Dureza said.

The New Yorker

Mr President, may I assure Members present this afternoon that I will certainly apprise my colleague, Mr Nielson, of the sentiments which have been expressed by the vast majority of this Parliament.

EU Parlament

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may I present" to formally introduce a person, idea, or object, creating a sense of anticipation and respect. For example, "May I present Dr. Eleanor Vance, a pioneer in quantum physics."

Common error

Avoid using "may I present" in casual conversations. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "this is" or "meet" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "may I present" is to act as an introducing phrase, setting the stage for the formal presentation of a person, idea, or object. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a formal way to introduce someone or something to an audience. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in introducing speakers, items, and even concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may I present" serves as a formal introduction and is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI validates its usability and appropriateness in various contexts. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Academia, indicating a formal tone. While "may I present" is a common expression, it's important to use it in appropriate settings, avoiding overuse in casual conversations. Alternatives like "allow me to introduce" or "i'd like to introduce" can be suitable depending on the context. Using "may I present" correctly ensures a polished and respectful delivery when introducing people or ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow me to introduce

This phrase offers a slightly more formal tone compared to "may I present".

i'd like you to meet

This phrase is typically used when introducing people, and is less formal.

let me introduce you to

Similar in formality to "i'd like you to meet", often used for introductions.

i present to you

This option is more direct and can add a sense of occasion or importance.

permit me to introduce

A highly formal alternative, suitable for very formal events.

it is my pleasure to introduce

Emphasizes the speaker's delight in making the introduction.

i have the honor of presenting

Highlights the honor the speaker feels in making the introduction.

now, i give you

Often used to create anticipation before the introduction.

please welcome

Commonly used in public speaking to encourage audience applause.

here's

A very informal way to introduce something or someone.

FAQs

How do I use "may I present" in a sentence?

"May I present" is typically used to formally introduce someone or something. For example, "Ladies and gentlemen, "may I present" our guest speaker, Professor Smith".

What can I say instead of "may I present"?

You can use alternatives such as "allow me to introduce", "i'd like to introduce", or "i present to you", depending on the level of formality required.

When is it appropriate to use "may I present"?

It's best to use "may I present" in formal settings, such as public speaking engagements, business presentations, or when introducing someone to a person of higher status. In informal settings, other introductions may be more suitable.

Is "may I present" considered old-fashioned?

While "may I present" is a traditional phrase, it remains a perfectly acceptable and elegant way to make a formal introduction. Its perceived formality can make it seem less common in everyday conversation, but it is still used in appropriate contexts.