May i have an update on this, please? vs Can i have an update on this, please?

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They are polite ways to ask for an update on a particular matter. The choice between 'may' and 'can' is a matter of formality, with 'may' being slightly more formal than 'can.'

Last updated: April 05, 2024 • 775 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"May i have an update on this, please?"

This phrase is a polite way to ask for an update on a particular matter. 'May' is a more formal choice compared to 'can.'

Show examples from the web [+]

May i have an update on this, please?
Mother, may I have an orange?
May I have an interview, please?
May I have an autograph, please, miss?
May I have an okay on this, please?
May I have an associate in aisle 5, please?
And for our last demonstration, may I have an object, please?
May I have an outside line, please?
Mr President, may I have an answer from Mr Bangemann to the question I asked concerning his thoughts on Amendment No 30 which I have tabled with Mrs Dybkjær.
Along the same lines as Mr Cot, may I have an assurance from you that when the changes to the Rules are drawn up, they will be put to the House so that the House can endorse or reject them?
Granddad, may I have an apple?
May I have an outside line, please?
May I have an autograph?
May I have an answer?
May I have an ice-cream?
I may have needed an intervention.
May I please have an application?
If you do visit the brewery, you may discover I have an arrangement whereby Brian there sells me the more... vintage bitter at a favourable rate.
I think I may have an opening tomorrow morning.
I may have an idea for a shortcut.
I may have an important job.

Alternatives:

Could I have an update on this, please?
Might I have an update on this, please?

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"Can i have an update on this, please?"

This phrase is a polite way to ask for an update on a particular matter. 'Can' is slightly less formal than 'may.'

Show examples from the web [+]

Can i have an update on this, please?
Frost, can I have an evidence bag.
How can I have an ulcer?
Mommy, can I have an omelet?
Can I have an autograph, please?
So can I have an Advil or something?
Excuse me, can I have an autograph?
Since what age can I have an Emergencycard?
Young man, can I have an autograph?
Buzz, can I have an earpiece, please?
Can I have an explanation from the Commission?
Can I have an interpreter in person at my disposal?
Jim, can I have an autograph?
Mr Fusco, can I have an advance?
Operator, can I have an outside line please? Thank you.
Excuse me, can I have an instant lotto millionaire?
As unemployed, how can I have an employment card?
And can I have an ouzo, please?
Can I have an eye patch?
Daddy, can I have an English muffin?
Dad, can I have an orange?

Alternatives:

Could I have an update on this, please?
Would it be possible to have an update on this, please?

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