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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

Can I say

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

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?
  • 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

may 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.

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?
  • 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

Related Comparisons

can I say vs could I say I can say vs I can tell you may say vs you might say I would say vs I will say I can say vs Can I say

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