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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