Modal Verbs of Permission

English Modal Verbs of Permission

• We use the modal CAN to talk about permission or ask for things at present.
• We can also use COULD and MAY to talk general permission in the past. However we cannot use COUL or MAY to talk about permission for a particular action in the past.

Example Sentences

• Can I ask a question?
• Can I go outside, please?
• Can I borrow your black coat?
• Can I come in?
• Can I hand in my assignment late?
• Could my father join us tomorrow for dinner?
• Could I borrow your book?

 

• May I use your notebook?
• May I go to the bathroom?
• You may take this Saturday off from work.
• You can use our resources for free.
• You can come with us.
• Passengers may sit anywhere.