English - polite language

Page 1

How to ask for permission Can I ….. ? Could I …… ? May I ….. ? Might I …..? Is it ok if I …?

Part 1 - Neutral + possibly / just Add the word ‘possibly’ or ‘just’ to make the sentence sound more polite.

Can I (possibly) come in? Could I take a short break? May I (possibly) interrupt you? Might I just say something? Is it ok if I use your desk?

Sure, no problem. Yes, you can. Yes, of course (you can). Yes, you may. Yes, of course (you may). Please, feel free (to do it).

No, you can’t. I’m afraid not. I’d rather you didn’t. Certainly not. Definitely not. I’m afraid that’s not possible.

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How to ask for permission Part 2 - Formal

Do you think ‌ ?

Do you think I could (possibly) l borrow your car for a few hours? Do you think I might (possibly) leave the office early today?

Mind

Definitely not.

Do you mind if I open the window? Would you mind if I stayed here a bit? Would you mind my using your computer?

I was wondering if ‌..?

Wonder I wonder if I could / might talk to you? I was wondering if I could borrow your phone?

Would Would it be possible for me to take a few days off? Would it be all right if I took a few minutes break ?

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Professional English Center


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