Can I say vs may I say

Both 'can I say' and 'may I say' are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. 'Can I say' is used to ask for permission or ability, while 'may I say' is more formal and polite, often used to seek permission or make a polite suggestion.

Last updated: March 23, 2024 • 1519 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to ask for permission or ability.

"Can I say"

Use 'can I say' when you want to ask if you have permission or the ability to say something.

Examples:

Can I say something?
Can I say a few words?
Can I say that I disagree?
Can I say how I feel?
Can I say what's on my mind?

Show examples from the web [+]

Can I say that I was extremely impressed by how it was done.
Can I say that this is disrespectful, unfair and unfounded.
Can I say how happy I am for you?
Can I say something, one thing, before you drive off?
Can I say something, please?
Can I say something, Trubel?
Can I say what we're all probably thinking?
Can I say just one more thing?
Can I say something that'll... probably annoy you?
Can I say unnamed White House source?
Can I say something, ma'am?
Can I say something even crazier?
Can I say something about the cat?
Can I say that the European Union recognizes the need for further improvements and progress in the implementation of human rights and democratic freedoms in Turkey.
Can I say to the Honourable Member there is no question of the Union ending a trade agreement with Israel.
Can I say something in my own defense?
Can I say things like that?
Can I say something, Hayasaki san?
Can I say over 100%?
- Can I say something crazy?

Alternatives:

May I say
Could I say
Am I allowed to say
Is it okay if I say
Do you mind if I say

This phrase is correct and more formal and polite than 'can I say'. It is often used to seek permission or make a polite suggestion.

"may I say"

Use 'may I say' in formal situations or when you want to be more polite in asking for permission or making a suggestion.

Examples:

May I say a few words?
May I say something?
May I say that I disagree?
May I say how I feel?
May I say what's on my mind?

Show examples from the web [+]

In return may I say that I am also unhappy.
Sweetie, may I say something?
Firstly, may I say how lovely you're looking, and secondly, what an absolute pleasure it is to be on the show.
On competitiveness, may I say that is one of the prime considerations why we engaged in this whole exercise.
Sir, may I say I thoroughly enjoyed your performance.
Sir, may I say I thoroughly enjoyed your performance.
Thomas: Ms. Keating, may I say, we are beyond dismayed By the conduct you've exhibited here today.
And may I say what an honor it is to meet the loins of Rumancek - from which Peter sprung.
So may I say something, Edward?
Excuse me, may I say something?
Let it slip, but may I say, that was a stupendous shot.
And on that note, may I say, in confidence...
To conclude, may I say that, generally, what happened at the Extraordinary Council on 6 May was a very good beginning.
Firstly, may I say that I cannot answer for statements made by members of other parliaments, whoever or wherever they may be.
This being so, may I say how delighted I am that the agreement clearly refers to respect for fundamental human rights.
As my fifth point, may I say that there is a need for a strengthening of Frontex.
In reply to the Lisbon Treaty comment from my colleague Liam Aylward, may I say that, yes, inspections did cause a problem.
On behalf of my Group may I say that we emphatically support Mrs Uca's report and we congratulate the Commissioner on this gender strategy.
Mr President, may I say on my personal behalf that I have particularly appreciated these debates on human rights, especially the debate on Burma.
To close, may I say that the Commission accepts 9 amendments in full and another 19 in principle or in part.

Alternatives:

Can I say
Could I say
Am I allowed to say
Is it okay if I say
Do you mind if I say

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Can I say vs may I say

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