je peux
The English phrase 'can I' is translated into French as je peux.
The phrase is used to ask for permission to do something. While je peux can translate to both 'I can' (expressing ability) and 'I may' (requesting permission), the context of your sentence will clarify which meaning is intended.
Which one should you use?
The forms differ based on the level of formality and the structure of the question. Puis-je is a formal and polite way to say 'Can I.' In very formal situations, you might use Aurais-je la permission de to show a high level of respect. For informal situations, you can use Est-ce que je peux or Ça te dérange si je when speaking to someone you have a familiar relationship with.
How does it change in a sentence?
In casual spoken French, you can turn je peux into a question simply by raising your pitch at the end of the sentence. In formal questions, the subject and verb are inverted to form puis-je instead of je peux.
Did you know?
- If you use Puis-je in a casual setting like a cafe with friends, you might sound like a character from a 17th-century play.
- While je peux asks for permission, a French speaker might respond je vous en prie to grant it. This literally means 'I pray you of it' but functions as a polite 'please do'.
- The word pouvoir is a cognate of the English word 'power'. Both words derive from the Latin potere, meaning to be able to.
Examples in context
- Je peux entrer ?Can I come in?This sentence is useful for asking to enter a room.Tatoeba #431328 by qdii, translation #427920 by CK
- Je peux passer ?Can I stop by?This sentence is useful for asking to stop by a location.Tatoeba #10465684 by lbdx, translation #3172310 by CK
- Je peux essayer ?Can I try it?This sentence is useful for asking to try something.Tatoeba #4418412 by gillux, translation #2020580 by Spamster
- Est-ce que je peux utiliser votre téléphone, s'il vous plaît?Can I use your phone, please?
- Puis-je vous poser une question?Can I ask you a question?
- Aurais-je la permission de participer à la réunion?Would I have permission to attend the meeting?
- Est-ce que je peux emprunter ton stylo?Can I borrow your pen?
- Je peux ouvrir la fenêtre?Can I open the window?
- 268 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Manon is asking Lucas for permission to sit at his table in a café.
- ManonJe peux m'asseoir ici ?Can I sit here?
- LucasOui, bien sûr, Manon.Yes, of course, Manon.
- ManonMerci beaucoup, Lucas.Thank you very much, Lucas.
- LucasDe rien.You're welcome.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
