Modal verbs of Permission

Exercises

Explanation

1. Can – informal permission

Can is the most common modal verb for asking permission in everyday conversations. It sounds friendly and casual.

Examples:

• Can I sit here?

• Can we use your printer?

2. Could – more polite than “can”

Could is a softer, more polite form. We use it when we want to be more respectful or when speaking to someone we don’t know well.

Examples:

• Could I borrow your notebook?

• Could we start a bit earlier today?

3. May – formal permission

May is used in formal or professional situations. It sounds very polite and official.

Examples:

• May I speak to the manager?

• May we enter the conference room?

4. Might – very polite, careful request

Might is a rare and very polite way to ask permission. It appears in very formal or old-fashioned contexts.

Examples:

• Might I ask a quick question?

• Might we join your table?

5. Shall I… – offering help

Shall I is not used to ask for permission. Instead, it is used to offer to do something for someone.

Examples:

• Shall I turn the lights on?

• Shall I make some tea?

Useful Phrases for Asking Permission

These phrases are helpful in polite or professional situations:

• Would you mind if I…?
  Would you mind if I used your charger?

• Do you mind if I…?
  Do you mind if I open the door?

• Is it okay if I…?
  Is it okay if I leave a bit earlier?

How to Give Permission

Instead of just saying yes, we can sound more natural with these phrases:

• Sure, go ahead!

• Yes, of course.

• No problem.

• Feel free.

• That’s fine with me.

Example:
— Can I take one of these brochures?
— Of course, go ahead.

How to Refuse Permission Politely

A direct no can sound too strong, so we use softer phrases:

• I’m afraid not.

• Sorry, but that’s not possible.

• I’d rather you didn’t.

• Unfortunately, no.

• That might not be a good idea.

Example:
— Is it okay if I bring food inside?
— I’m afraid not; it’s not allowed.