may i use this vs can i use this

Both 'May I use this?' and 'Can I use this?' are correct and commonly used in English. They are both polite ways to ask for permission to use something. The choice between 'may' and 'can' depends on the level of formality you want to convey.

Last updated: March 24, 2024 • 780 views

may i use this

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to ask for permission in a polite way.

This phrase is a polite way to ask for permission to use something. It is more formal than 'Can I use this?' and is often used in situations where a higher level of formality is required.

Examples:

May I use this pen?
May I use your phone?
May I use the restroom?
May I use your computer?
May I use your car?

Show examples from the web [+]

Madam President, after the few small criticisms which I have had to make, may I use this opportunity to express my gratitude and praise the support services.
May I use this to learn more about this vessel and its customs?
Also, may I use this opportunity to express my regret about the incident in Osnabrück which happened during this conference and on a more local level at the outrageous murder of Ms Veronica Guerin by people involved in the drugs trade.
May I use this as an example to ask Mrs Aelvoet to speak on behalf of the Green Group in the European Parliament and to ask him to try to keep to the minute and a half allocated to him.
What is happening in southern Spain is much more serious than Dover, Mr Danielsson, and I believe it requires some interference, if I may use this expression.
After this IGC, Mr Gil-Robles, I think the instrument of reinforced cooperation will be more clearly defined and, if I may use this expression, more 'workable' in relation to the current content of the Treaty of Amsterdam.
These examples show how the ethics in food consumption - if I may use this expression - are being abused as a result of this anonymity and at the cost of the consumer's health.
I happen to be a member of the Committee on Budgets but if I may use this platform for propaganda, the Budgets Committee is blocking the release of resources for the security services.
As far as Rwanda is concerned, the Commission shares the concerns which have been expressed regarding the effectiveness of the system of justice, if I may use this diplomatic term, to judge those responsible for genocide.
Please may I use your lavatories?
- May I use your telephone?
- May I use the facilities?
May I use your office, Weston?
May I use your facilities, ma'am?
Sister, may I use your telephone?
Waiter, may I use the telephone?
Captain, may I use my annual leave?
Miss, may I use your phone?
Then may I use your telephone?
Lieutenant Provenza, may I use your phone?

Alternatives:

Could I use this?
Might I use this?
Would it be okay if I use this?
Is it permissible for me to use this?
Am I allowed to use this?

can i use this

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to ask for permission in a polite way.

This phrase is a polite way to ask for permission to use something. It is less formal than 'May I use this?' and is often used in everyday situations.