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"can I call you" vs "shall I call you"

"Can I call you?" is used when you want to ask permission to phone someone at an undetermined point in the future.
"Shall I call you?" is used when you want to offer to phone someone.

Last Updated: March 20, 2019

can I call you

This is correct

"Can I call you?" is a request for permission to call someone at some point in the future.

ExpertExplanation provided by a TextRanch English expert


Some examples from our editors:

  • I'm really busy right now. Can I call you later?
  • I really like you. Can I call you sometime?
  • I need more information in order to answer your question. Can I call you tomorrow?

Some alternatives from our editors:

  • Could I call you?
  • Would it be okay if I called you?

shall I call you

This is correct

"Shall I call you?" is a way to suggest that you phone someone.

ExpertExplanation provided by a TextRanch English expert


Some examples from our editors:

  • I think these emails are getting too complicated. Shall I call you?
  • Should we keep texting, or shall I call you?
  • Let's continue this conversation. Shall I call you on Thursday?

Some alternatives from our editors:

  • Should I call you?
  • Why don't I call you?

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