"May I speak with" vs "May speak to"

Question

"May I speak with" vs "May speak to"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'May I speak with' is commonly used when asking for permission to talk to someone, especially in formal situations. On the other hand, 'may speak to' is less common and may be used in more direct or assertive situations.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used to politely request to have a conversation with someone. It is often used in more formal settings or when showing respect.

Examples:

May I speak with the manager, please?
May I speak with you for a moment?
May I speak with John about the project?
May I speak with your supervisor?
May I speak with the person in charge?

Alternatives:

Can I talk to
Could I have a word with
Is it possible to have a conversation with
Would it be alright to speak with
Am I able to discuss with

This phrase can be used to assertively state the intention to speak to someone. It may be less polite or formal compared to 'may I speak with.'

Examples:

I may speak to the manager directly.
He may speak to the team about the new project.
She may speak to the authorities about the issue.
You may speak to the person in charge if needed.
They may speak to the customer directly.

Alternatives:

I will talk to
He is going to address
She plans to discuss with
You can communicate with
They are going to have a conversation with

Answer 1

May I speak with

This phrase is correct and commonly used when asking for permission to talk to someone, especially in formal situations.

Answer 2

May speak to

This phrase is correct but less common. It may be used in more direct or assertive situations.

"May I speak with" vs "May speak to"

May I speak with

May speak to

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