Some Structures Used

when Asking for Permission

Can I + verb - VERY INFORMAL

Can I go out tonight?
Can he have dinner with us?
NOTE: The use of "Can I do something?" is
very informal, and considered incorrect by
many. However, it is used in everyday
informal speech and for that reason has
been included.
Practice Situation: ask SB to go out
on a weekday evening with friends

May I + verb
May I have another piece of pie?
May we go out with our friends tonight?
NOTE: Traditionally, the use of "May I do something?"
has been used for asking permission. In modern
society, this form has become a little more formal
and is often replaced with other forms such as "Can
I..." and "Could I ..." Many argue that "Can I ..." is
incorrect because it refers to ability. However, this
form is quite common in everyday situations.

Practice Situation: Ask your boss to

take a day or two off work

Could I please + verb

Could I please go with Tom to the movie?
Could we please go on trip this weekend?

Do you think I could + verb

Do you think I could use your cell phone?

Do you think I could borrow your car?
Practice Situation: Have a
conversation between a mother and a son
who needs to go out and use the car

Would you mind if I + verb in past

Would you mind if I stayed a few more minutes?
Would you mind if I took a five minute break?
Do you mind if I + verb simple present
Do you mind if she stays?
Do you mind if I go?
Would you mind my + verb + ing + your + object
Would you mind my using your cellphone?
Would you mind my playing your piano?
Practice Situation: Have a conversation
between coworkers working for long hours in the
same office.

Would it be possible for me + infinitive

Would it be possible for me to use your
computer for a few minutes?
Would it be possible for to study in this room?

Practice Situation: Have a conversation

between a new employee and coworkers.

Giving Permission
If you would like to say "yes" to someone
who asks permission, you can give
permission using these phrases:

Sure
No problem.
Go right ahead.

Please feel free + infinitive

Refusing a Favor
I'm afraid I'd prefer if you didn't / don't.
Sorry, but I'd rather you not do that.
Unfortunately, I need to say no.
I'm afraid that's not possible.

Saying 'no', is never fun, but sometimes it's necessary. It's

common to offer a different solution to try to help out even if
you can't give permission.