Grammar: Modal Verbs for Permission
A2 Lesson 18: Using 'Can' and 'May'
Asking For & Responding to Requests
We often use 'can' to ask if it's okay to do something. How we answer depends on whether the answer is yes or no.
✅ Giving Permission (Saying "Yes")
If the answer is yes, you can use these common, friendly phrases:
- Sure.
- Of course.
- No problem.
- Yes, of course you can.
❌ Refusing Permission (Saying "No")
To be polite, it's best to soften your "no" by giving a reason or apologising.
- I'm sorry, you can't.
- Unfortunately, that's not possible.
- I'm afraid not. (This area is closed).
The Grammar Rule 📖
How to Ask for Permission
| Modal | Structure | Formality | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can | Can + I/we + Verb...? | Normal / Friendly | Can I borrow your pen? |
| May | May + I/we + Verb...? | Formal / Very Polite | May I see your ticket, please? |
Note: 'Can' is used most of the time in daily conversation. Use 'may' in very formal situations or when you want to be extra respectful.
In Conversation
Let's see how this works in a real situation at a museum.
Tourist: Excuse me, can we take a photo in here?
Guard: I'm sorry, you can't use a flash, but you can take photos without it.
Tourist: I see. And can I bring this water bottle inside?
Guard: Of course, no problem at all.
Practice Your Grammar 🎯
Exercise: What would you say?
Choose the best question to ask in each situation.
- You are in a shop and want to try on a shirt.
→ Can I try this on? - You are at a restaurant with friends and you are ready to pay.
→ Can we have the bill, please? - Your phone battery is dead and you need to make one important call.
→ Can I use your phone for a minute? - You are in a quiet library and want to sit at an empty chair at someone's table.
→ Excuse me, can I sit here?
Your Grammar Mission ⭐
Write a Dialogue
Write a short, 4-line conversation between a customer and a coffee shop worker. The customer asks for permission to do something (e.g., use the Wi-Fi, charge their phone), and the worker gives or refuses permission politely.
Key Vocabulary
- Permission The act of allowing someone to do something.
- Formal Used in serious situations or with people you don't know well; the opposite of casual.