Grammar Notes - Can - Requests
Can - Requests / Permission
Point 1: Use Can for polite requests.
- Can you hold the door for me?
- Can you come to work early tomorrow?
- Can you spell your name for me?
- Can you not sit there?
Point 2: When answering polite requests, we usually do not say 'Yes' or 'No!' We use special phrases.
To reply 'Yes' you can say:
- Sure
- Of course.
- I would be glad to.
To reply 'No' we might say the following:
- I'm sorry, (give reason).
- I'd rather not.
Point 3: Use can to ask for permission.
- Can I leave early?
- Can I borrow your car?
- Can I sit here?
- Can I go home early?
Point 4: When answering polite requests, we usually do not say 'Yes' or 'No!' We use special phrases
To reply 'Yes' you can say:
- Sure
- Of course
- Be my guest
To reply 'No' we might say the following:
- I'm sorry, (give reason)
- I'd rather you didn't.