Permission, Grammar rules

1. PERMISSIONS

2. CAN, COULD AND MAY
• Use the modals Can, Could and May to ask permissions. Use the verb
in the base form no matter off whom you are speaking
Can he play with you?
• When You use could for permission, it is not in the past
Could I bring a friend with me now?
• May is much more formal and polite.
Miss, May I go to the bathroom?

3. DO YOU MIND IF
• Use the expression Do you mind if to ask permission when an action
may annoy someone
Do you mind if I write in you book?
• Add “S” to the verb if you are talking about he, she or it
Do you mind if he writes in your book?

4. ANSWERS
• To response in affirmative way when we are asked with Can, Could and
May use expressions such as: Certainly, Of course, Sure, No problem
Can I sit in here? Sure.
• When we use a modal in an answer, use can. Do not use could, and rarely
use may in short answers.
Could I borrow this pencil?
Yes, of course you can
Yes, of course you could

5. • The response to a question with Do you mind if is: Not at all, or No,
I don’t. And it means we are giving permission.
Do you mind if I drink your soda? Not at all. I am not thirsty.
• When we refuse permission, we usually apologize and give an
explanation
Can I use your computer?
I’m sorry, but I need it today.

6. PLEASE
• We often say please when we ask permission
Could I open the window, please?
or
Could I please open the window?
• Do not use please with Do you mind if
Do you mind if my brother comes, please?