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The word CAN usually implies either “ability” or “possibility” in doing something. The word MAY, on the other hand, suggests a situation wherein one is requesting permission.

Example of usage of the word CAN:  “One CAN do what he wants, provided it is within legal and moral bounds.”  Or: “The human body can normally withstand 3Gs, or what one experiences in a hairy roller coaster ride.”

Example of usage of the word MAY: “May I proceed with my explanation of Newton’s Law?” Or: “You may accompany your sister to the prom.”

Many people, in an effort to emphasize the difference between the two words, use the them together in one sentence. Q: “Can I go out with your sister?” A: “You CAN, but you MAY not!”