"can we come to you" vs "May we come to you"

Question

"can we come to you" vs "May we come to you"

Both "Can we come to you?" and "May we come to you?" are correct, but they have slightly different implications. "Can we come to you?" is more informal and focuses on ability, while "May we come to you?" is more formal and polite, seeking permission. The choice between them depends on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

This phrase is used to ask if it is possible to go to someone's location. It is more informal and focuses on ability rather than permission.

Examples:

Can we come to you for dinner tonight?
Can we come to you to discuss the project?
Can we come to you for help with our homework?
Can we come to you if we have any questions?
Can we come to you to borrow some tools?

Alternatives:

Is it possible for us to come to you?
Are we allowed to come to you?
Could we come to you?
Would it be okay if we came to you?
Is it alright if we come to you?

This phrase is used to ask for permission to go to someone's location. It is more formal and polite compared to "Can we come to you?".

Examples:

May we come to you for advice?
May we come to you to discuss the matter?
May we come to you for guidance?
May we come to you if we need assistance?
May we come to you to seek your opinion?

Alternatives:

Could we have permission to come to you?
Would it be possible for us to come to you?
Is it acceptable for us to come to you?
Might we come to you?
Would it be permissible for us to come to you?

Answer 1

can we come to you

This phrase is correct and commonly used in informal situations to inquire about the ability to come to someone.

Answer 2

May we come to you

This phrase is correct and more formal, used to ask for permission to come to someone. It conveys politeness and respect.

"can we come to you" vs "May we come to you"

can we come to you

May we come to you

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