alabilir miyim
/alabiliɾ mijim/from spelling rules
In Turkish, "can I have" is expressed as alabilir miyim.
alabilir miyim is a polite way to ask for something or to order an item.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb almak (to take/receive), the potentiality suffix -abil, the question particle mi and the first-person singular suffix -yim. Literally, it means "can I be able to take/receive".
How do you pronounce it?
The /b/ is like the b in a[b]out, the /i/ is like the i in cr[ee]k, the /ɾ/ is like the t in AmE a[t]om, the /m/ is like the m in [m]uch and the /j/ is like the y in [y]es.
Did you know?
- While alabilir miyim is the standard polite request, Turks often use the word kolay gelsin when entering a shop before asking for an item to wish the worker an 'easy work'.
- Despite the literal meaning 'can I take', using alabilir miyim in a restaurant is never considered rude or aggressive, unlike the English word 'take'.
- The suffix '-yim' in alabilir miyim marks you as the subject, but in very formal settings, you might use a plural suffix to refer to yourself to show extreme humility.
Examples in context
- Üç tane alabilir miyim?Can I have three?This sentence shows how to use alabilir miyim to ask for a specific quantity.Tatoeba #4209450 by duran, translation #3327404 by CK
- Onu alabilir miyim Tom?Can I have it, Tom?This sentence shows how to use alabilir miyim when addressing someone by name.Tatoeba #8336856 by deyta, translation #8172392 by maaster
- Onu geri alabilir miyim?Can I have it back?This sentence shows how to use alabilir miyim when requesting something be returned.Tatoeba #3082870 by duran, translation #2908622 by Hybrid
- Arkadaşım, bana bir kalem verir misin?My friend, can you give me a pen?
- Abla, verir misin bir dilim pastadan?Sister, can you give me a slice of cake?
- Özür dilerim, bir şeker alabilir miyim, lütfen?Excuse me, can I have a sugar, please?
- 124 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Burak is ordering a drink at a cafe.
- BurakBir bardak su alabilir miyim?Can I have a glass of water?
- MerveTabii ki, hemen getiriyorum.Of course, I'll bring it right away.
- BurakTeşekkürler, yanına bir peçete de alabilir miyim?Thanks, can I also have a napkin with it?
- MerveBuyurun, işte burada.Here you go, here it is.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Turkish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
