How often we have to ask for permission/approval to do something that we want. Asking for permission is a frequently used function of language. To use appropriate and native phrases and expressions make a good impression on the listeners.
English learners generally do not care about the appropriateness of language rather they focus on grammatical structure or accuracy. We must know that every natural language has limited functions and infinite ways and forms to express the same functions.
The form of language to express any function depends on context and situation. Therefore, to get the audience’s attention we must know which form of expression should we use. At the same time, we mustn’t forget to use the proper tone of language.
In this post, you will find 20+ native expressions in three categories; Formal, semi-formal and Informal. Additionally, you will learn many phrases and sentences of giving approval/disapproval and permission/denial.
Asking for Permission in Formal Situation
Asking for permission
1. May I+ base form of verb
May I sit here?
2. Could I use your laptop, David?
3. Do you mind if + simple Present
Do you mind if I join you for self-study?
4. Would you mind helping me?
Asking for Permission/approval in semi-formal Situation
- Is it alright if + present simple?
A: Are you coming to my birthday party tonight?
B: Yes, is it alright if I bring my younger sister?
2. Is it okay if + present simple
A: Have you completed your assignment, David.?
B: Sorry, not yet, is okay if I finish it tomorrow?
3.Do you think I should go to the party?
4.How about I submit my examination form tomorrow?
5.Do you think I could borrow your smartphone for tonight?
Asking for permission/approval in informal situations
1. What do you think about me + (doing something)
Ex. What do you think about me joining this workshop?
2. Would you approve of me+ (doing something)
Ex. Would you approve of me grabbing a new opportunity in marketing?
3. Would it be possible+ (doing something)
Ex. Would it be possible borrowing your Julius Caesar (Book)
Giving permission/approval in English happily
1.Yes, go ahead
A: Could I use your laptop, David?
B: Yes, go ahead.
2. Go right ahead.
A: May I look your report
B: Go right ahead.
3. Sure, no problem
A: May i sit here?
B: Sure, no problem
4. Yes, of course you can
A: Can I borrow your pen please?
B: Yes, of course you can.
Giving Permission Reluctantly
1. Yes, I suppose so
A: May I borrow your report ?
B: Yes, I suppose so.
2. Yes, if you must
A: Could I borrow you laptop, Jimmy?
B: Yes, if you must.
Refusing the Permission
1. I am afraid, that’s not possible.
A: May I smoke here?
B: I am afraid, that’s not possible.
2.I am sorry, that’s not possible.
A: How about I submit my examination form tomorrow?
B: I am sorry, that’s not possible.
3. I am terribly sorry but the answer is no.
A: Do you mind if I borrow your car for a week?
B: I am terribly sorry but the answer is no.
4. Unfortunately I need to say no.
A: May I join your company tonight?
B: Unfortunately I need to say no.
5.I am afraid I would prefer if you don’t.
A: Is it okay if I stay here for three day?
B: I am afraid I would prefer if you don’t.
Functions of language are finite but the form of the expressions may be uncountable. So, you are free to add more expression to show your agreement and disagreement. Keep learning ….All The Best!