Modal verbs of Permission

Exercises

Explanation

1. Can – informal and friendly permission

Can is widely used in everyday spoken English. It is suitable for conversations with friends, classmates, or colleagues in relaxed settings. It sounds direct, simple, and casual.

Examples:

• Can I move this chair?

• Can we play music for a few minutes?

2. Could – polite and gentle request

Could is the more polite version of can. It softens the request and signals respect, especially when speaking to someone older, someone you don’t know well, or in situations where you want to sound considerate.

Examples:

• Could I see that document for a moment?

• Could we use this room for a quick meeting?

3. May – formal and official permission

May is typically used in professional, academic, or formal contexts. It is often heard in official announcements, classroom settings, and customer–staff interactions. It conveys a high level of politeness.

Examples:

• May I begin the presentation now?

• May we take a short break before continuing?

4. Might – very polite, cautious request

Might is much less common today but appears in very polite, careful, or traditional forms of English. It can sound old-fashioned, but it still exists in very formal or delicate situations.

Examples:

• Might I enquire about the schedule for tomorrow?

• Might we leave our bags at the reception?

5. Shall I… – offering help, not asking permission

Shall I is used to offer assistance, not to request permission. It is a polite way to propose doing something for someone else. It is common in service settings, meetings, and polite conversation.

Examples:

• Shall I open the window to let some air in?

• Shall I send you the updated file later today?

Useful Phrases for Requesting Permission

These expressions are especially helpful in polite or professional communication:

Would you mind if I…?

• Would you mind if I moved this table?

Do you mind if I…?

• Do you mind if I join your group?

Is it okay if I…?

• Is it okay if I call you later this evening?

These structures make your request sound respectful and considerate.

How to Give Permission Politely

Instead of simply saying yes, English speakers often use more natural, friendly expressions:

• Sure, go ahead.

• Yes, absolutely.

• No problem at all.

• Feel free.

• That’s fine with me.

Example:
— Can I print this document?
— Yes, of course. Go ahead.

How to Refuse Permission Politely

A direct no can sound too strong or rude, so polite refusals soften the message while remaining clear:

• I’m afraid not.

• Sorry, but that isn’t possible.

• I’d rather you didn’t.

• Unfortunately, no.

• That might not be a good idea.

Example:
— Is it okay if I use your personal laptop?
— I’m afraid not; it contains confidential files.

Modal verbs of permission are essential for navigating social interactions in English. They help learners ask questions respectfully, behave appropriately in formal and informal settings, and communicate with confidence.