1) Let’s Learn
In this lesson, you will learn how to ask for permission politely. To ask permission means to find out if you are allowed or permitted. You will learn how to use the following modals and expressions:
• Can
• Could
• May
• Do you mind if
• Is it okay I
2) In English, it is polite to ask for permission before you do or use something that affects others. What are some examples of things people ask permission for?
• borrowing a pen
• getting a ball from someone’s yard
• using a phone
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Dialogues
3) Read the dialogues, and practice with a partner.
Dialogue 1
Alex: Can I borrow the car, Mom?
Betty: Sure, go ahead.
Alex: Is it okay if I take the leftover pizza too?
Betty: That’s fine by me, but ask your dad.
Dialogue 2
Adam: Do you mind if I park out front?
Bob: I’m sorry. Those spots are reserved. There’s a parking lot across the street.
Adam: Great. May I leave my bags here for a moment?
Bob: Be my guest!
Dialogue 3
Mike: Do you mind if we charge our phones here?
Waiter: I’m afraid the charging stations are for paying customers only.
Mike: Okay, could we order some drinks and charge our phones?
Waiter: Absolutely.
Mike: Great. Could I use your washroom too?
Waiter: Sure, go ahead.
Useful Expressions
4) Review these common questions and responses. Recite them together as a class.
A. Asking for Permission
Informal |
Formal |
|---|---|
• Can I use your phone? • Can we park here? • Is it okay if I sit here? |
• May I borrow your ruler? • Could she use this computer? • Do you mind if he leaves his bag here? |
Patterns To ask for permission, use one of these patterns: Can / Could / May + subject + base verb Do you mind if / Is it okay if + subject + present verb |
B. Giving Permission (Approval)
5) To give or grant permission, use one word or phrase:
Strong Approval |
Weak Approval |
• Of course. • Sure. • Absolutely. • Be my guest. (formal) • You don’t (even) have to ask. (yes) • By all means. • Anytime! |
• I guess. • If you must. • Fine. Go ahead. • It’s fine by me, but ask |
C. Refusing Permission (Refusal)
6) To refuse permission, use these expressions:
7) Complete the formal dialogue, and practice with a partner.
You: Do you mind if I leave halfway through the meeting? I have an appointment.
Partner: ……………………………………………………………………. (weak approval)
You: Sorry. Also, ……………………………………… I get the Wi-Fi password?
Partner: It’s GuestFree. One word, capital G and F.
You: Thanks a lot.
Partner: No problem. ……………………………………………….. I trade seats with you?
You: ………………………………………………………………………………. (strong approval)
8) Change the Informal Dialogue Read the dialogue, and practice with a partner.
Then change the information in bold to another situation. Practice again.
You: Can I borrow your pen?
Partner: Of course.
You: Thanks. Is it okay if I use your notes from last week too?
Partner: Good try.
You: Please?
partner: No way.
You: Come on! I was sick last week.
Partner:
Fine. Go ahead
9)
Are
the following exchanges formal or informal? Does the respondent
approve or refuse? Put a check mark (x)
in the correct columns.
# |
Dialogue |
Formality |
Response |
||
Formal |
Informal |
Approval |
Refusal |
||
1 |
Q: Can I have a piece of this pizza? A: You don’t have to ask. |
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2 |
Q: May I have the Wi-Fi password? A: I’m afraid that’s only for guests. |
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3 |
Q: Could we please use this chair? A: I’m sorry. We’re waiting for someone. |
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4 |
Q: Can I sleep at your house tonight? A: Anytime |
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5 |
Q: Is it okay if I run out for a sec? A: Not happening! |
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6 |
Q: Do you mind if I ride your bike? A: I’m sorry, it is at the repair shop. |
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The
Magic Word
Some
people won’t take “no” for an answer.
They
use the magic word (Please?) to beg for permission.
Child:
Can
I eat the last doughnut?
Dad:
No
way. You had one already.
Child:
Please?
[whining]
Dad:
Not
a chance.
Child:
Come
on. I’m hungry. Pretty please?
[stronger
whining]
Dad:
Fine.
Go ahead.
