![[D] Requests, Permission](https://images.ctfassets.net/r30ratzbtbbf/59xGweOAtRlNTp3W0RRZ4f/c7a6536402dce25a97bb3631662ff7b4/Requests__Permission.png)
LET'S READ! 📖
Direction: Read the short passage then answer the questions being asked.
Anna
Melly
Absolutely. Here you go, feel free to use it.
Anna
Thank you so much. May I also use your stapler? I need to attach some important documents together.
Melly
Certainly, go ahead. The stapler is right here on my desk.
Anna
Thank you. Would it be alright if I used the printer to make some copies of these documents? I'll be quick.
Melly
Of course. The printer is located in the corner. Just make sure to check the paper tray before your start.
Anna
Alright. Is there a specific time limit for using it?
Melly
Generally, we have a time limit of 30 minutes to ensure fairness, but since it's not too busy right now, you can take a little longer if needed.
Anna
I appreciate it. Can I return the stapler once I'm done?
Melly
Sure, just bring them back to my desk.
QUESTIONS
1. How much time do they usually have to use the printer? Why?
2. What does Anna need the stapler for?
3. What does Anna have to do before using the printer?
LET'S UNDERSTAND! 📚
Requests
- To make a polite request, it is not sufficient to just add 'please'. You should use a modal verb to be polite.
1. Use modal verbs can / could / may to ask for something politely. May is more formal.
Example
May I know your name, please?
Sure. It's Alex Smith.
2. Use can / could / will / would to ask someone politely to do something.
Example
Could you remove your shoes and change into these slippers before entering my house, please?
Of course.
3. If we want to be very polite, we can make requests with Do you think you could...?, Could you possibly..? or Do/Would you mind + verb + -ing...?
Example
Do you think you could contrive something for hanging my clothes on until I can get a wardrobe?
Of course
Do you mind drawing up the blinds?
No, not at all.
- Grammar Note 💡
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📌 could and would are more polite than 'can' and 'will'.
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Permission
- We can use the modal verbs can, could, and may with the first person to ask for permission. Could is more polite than can. May is formal.
1. We usually give permission with can or may, or we can just say of course, sure, or sorry
Example
Can I entrust you with the secret plans?
Of course, you can.
Could we have a Japanese-speaking guide?
Sure.
I have no cash on me may I pay by cheque?
No, I'm sorry we only accept payments in cash or cards.
2. Other ways of asking for permission
Example
Do you mind if I digress for a moment?
No, not at all.
It's getting stuffy in here - is it alright if I open the window?
Yes, of course.
LET'S PRACTICE! 📝
Direction: Imagine that you are in the following situations. Think about what you would say in these situations using the modals that you learned.
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You're carrying a lot of items. You can't open the door yourself. There's a man near the door.
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You've finished your meal in a restaurant and now you want the bill.
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You've filled in some forms in English. You want your friend to check them for you.
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The woman in the next room is playing music. You're studying but you can't concentrate because it's very loud.
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You're on a train. The window is open and you're cold. You'd like to close it.
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You're a tourist. You want to go to the train station, but you don't know how to get there.
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You're in a fashion boutique. You saw a really nice dress/suit and you want to try them on.
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You go into a cafe and see some people you know. You ask.
Excuse me, could I borrow your pen for a moment? I seem to have misplaced mine.