Learn how to use can to ask for and give permission in everyday situations.
The modal verb can is often used to ask for or give permission. It's a polite and common way to make requests or allow others to do something.
Examples: – Can I go outside?Examples: – You can borrow my book.Use 'can' at the start for questions Begin permission questions with can. Example: Can I use your phone?Use 'can' in statements to give permission Use can to say someone is allowed to do something. Example: You can sit here.Asking for permission: Can I leave early?Giving permission: You can use my laptop.Denying permission: No, you can’t go outside now.Use can to ask for permission, give permission, or deny permission.
Asking for permission: Can I open the window?Giving permission: You can watch TV now.Denying permission: Sorry, you can’t use my phone.Using 'may' instead of 'can' for casual situations: ❌ May I borrow your pen? ✔️ Can I borrow your pen?Forgetting to invert the subject and 'can' in questions: ❌ I can leave early? ✔️ Can I leave early?Rules for Using 'Can' to Ask for and Give Permission
Use can at the beginning of a question to ask for permission.
Use can in statements to give permission.
Special Cases & Exceptions:
To politely deny permission, use can’t or cannot.
| Example | Description |
|---|---|
| Can I go outside? | Asking for permission. |
| You can use my phone. | Giving permission. |
| You can’t enter this room. | Denying permission. |
| Can we leave early? | Asking for group permission. |
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