TextRanch

The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

may I speak to vs can i speak to

Both 'may I speak to' and 'can I speak to' are commonly used in English to ask for permission to speak to someone on the phone or in person. 'May I speak to' is considered more formal and polite, while 'can I speak to' is more casual. Both phrases are correct, but the choice between them depends on the level of formality you want to convey.

Last updated: April 19, 2024 • 938 views

may I speak to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially in formal situations.

This phrase is a polite way to ask for permission to speak to someone on the phone or in person. It is considered more formal than 'can I speak to.'
  • Hello, may I speak to Clive?
  • Then I called her office up and said, "may I speak to Dr. Lu?"
  • (Liz) Chewbacca, may I speak to Tracy, please?
  • May I speak to Fukushima Keiko in Menswear?
  • May I speak to Christine, please?
  • - May I speak to Chloe Williams, please?
  • Hello, I'm Mandy, may I speak to Philip?
  • May I speak to a Mr. Kevin Harkins?
  • Hi. May I speak to Pete Mandrake?
  • May I speak to Lawyer Centorbi?
  • May I speak to the other employee?
  • May I speak to the ambassador, please?
  • May I speak to Matthew, please?
  • May I speak to Rocio, please?
  • May I speak to Nick-san alone?
  • May I speak to Director Kopfrkingl?
  • Good afternoon May I speak to Hanka please?
  • May I speak to Miss Betty Schaefer?
  • May I speak to Mr. Anderson, please?
  • May I speak to Thomas Granger, please?

Alternatives:

  • Could I speak to
  • Might I speak to
  • Would it be possible to speak to

can i speak to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially in casual situations.

This phrase is a more casual way to ask for permission to speak to someone on the phone or in person. It is less formal than 'may I speak to.'

Alternatives:

  • Is it okay if I speak to
  • Am I able to speak to

Related Comparisons

What Our Customers Are Saying

Our customers love us! We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283,125 votes.
Also check out our 2,100+ reviews on TrustPilot (4.9TextRanch on TrustPilot).

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!