¿te puedo preguntar algo?
The English phrase "can I ask you something?" is translated into Spanish as ¿te puedo preguntar algo?
This phrase is a polite way to ask for permission to ask a question. You can also use the construction hacerle una pregunta to mean "to ask a question".
Which one should you use?
The use of 'te' makes the phrase informal, whereas using 'le' makes it formal.
How does it change in a sentence?
To ask a question, you can say preguntar algo (to ask something) or use the common construction hacer una pregunta (to make/do a question). Use ¿le puedo preguntar algo? when speaking to someone you do not know well or someone you wish to show respect to.
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, starting a conversation with ¿te puedo preguntar algo? can signal that a very serious or personal topic is about to be discussed.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, instead of asking 'if' they can ask something, people might use the verb molestar to say '¿Te puedo molestar con una pregunta?' meaning 'Can I bother you with a question?'
- If you are using the formal version ¿le puedo preguntar algo?, you are grammatically treating the person as a 'third person' to show deference. This is a core part of Spanish social etiquette.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are talking in the office.
- MateoSofía, ¿te puedo preguntar algo?Sofía, can I ask you something?
- SofíaSí, claro. Dime.Yes, of course. Tell me.
- Mateo¿Sabes dónde está el informe?Do you know where the report is?
- SofíaEstá sobre tu escritorio.It is on your desk.
