Можно выйти?
Mozhno vyyti?
In Russian, "can I go to the bathroom" is expressed as Можно выйти? (Mozhno vyyti?)
In a Russian classroom, students typically use the phrase Можно выйти? (Can I go out?) rather than specifically mentioning the bathroom.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Is it allowed to go out?"
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is a question when spoken with rising intonation, but can be used as a statement of permission by removing the question mark.
How do you pronounce it?
Mozhno vyyti?
Did you know?
- While Можно выйти? is the standard for classrooms, saying it in a formal business meeting without specifying where you are going might be seen as overly childlike.
- Depending on the teacher, a student might be expected to stand up straight and wait for a nod of approval before actually moving, even after the phrase is accepted.
- The word можно is a loanword from Polish, adapted to fit Russian grammar patterns.
Examples in context
- Можно мне в туалет, пожалуйста?May I go to the bathroom, please?
- Извините, можно мне в туалет на минутку?Excuse me, may I go to the bathroom for a moment?
- Простите, можно в туалет перед уходом?Excuse me, may I use the bathroom before I leave?
- Можно в туалет?Can I go to the bathroom?
- Эй, можно в туалет?Hey, can I go to the bathroom?
- Можно выйти?Mozhno vyyti?Can I go out?
- Извините, можно выйти?Izvinite, mozhno vyyti?Excuse me, can I go out?
- Простите, можно выйти?Prostite, mozhno vyyti?Forgive me, may I step out?
Example conversation
A student asks the teacher for permission during a lesson.
- Екатерина EkaterinaАндрей Сергеевич, можно выйти?Andrey Sergeyevich, mozhno vyyti?Andrey Sergeyevich, can I go out?
- Андрей AndreyДа, можно, Екатерина.Da, mozhno, Ekaterina.Yes, you may, Ekaterina.
- Екатерина EkaterinaСпасибо.Spasibo.Thank you.
- Андрей AndreyНе задерживайся.Ne zaderzhivaysya.Don't be long.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries выйти, можно, CC BY-SA 4.0.
