kann ich
The English phrase "can I" is translated into German as kann ich.
kann ich is used to ask for permission or to inquire if something is possible.
Which one should you use?
While kann ich is often used for both possibility and permission, the phrase darf ich (may I) is the more precise and polite way to ask for permission specifically.
How does it change in a sentence?
In a question, the verb kann moves to the front of the sentence, preceding the subject ich. In a statement, the word order is reversed to ich kann.
Did you know?
- German has a specific concept called 'Modalpartikeln' where adding a tiny word like denn to kann ich changes the tone from a simple question to one of curiosity or surprise.
- The German word kann comes from a root that also relates to the word 'knowledge', implying a connection between what one can do and what one knows.
- If you want to sound extra polite when asking 'can I', Germans often add the word eventuell or vielleicht to soften the request.
Examples in context
- Was kann ich tun?What can I do?This sentence is useful for asking what actions are possible.Tatoeba #8097168 by Luiaard, translation #408069 by Dorenda
- Kann ich mehr tun?Can I do more?This sentence is useful for asking if more action is possible.Tatoeba #4559434 by Esperantostern, translation #11952883 by sundown
- Wo kann ich parken?Where can I park?This sentence is useful for inquiring about a possible location for parking.Tatoeba #628044 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #38082 by CK
- Darf ich reinkommen?Can I come in?
- Darf ich Ihnen helfen?Can I help you?
- Könnte ich bitte das Fenster schließen?Could I please close the window?
- Könnte ich den Bericht später einreichen?Could I submit the report later?
- Kann ich mir dein Handy leihen?Can I borrow your phone?
- Kann ich morgen vorbeikommen?Can I come over tomorrow?
- Darf ich das Auto nehmen?Can I take the car?
- Darf ich das Essen kosten?Can I taste the food?
- Darf ich den Bericht drucken?Can I print the report?
- Könnte ich bitte einen Moment Ihrer Zeit haben?Could I have a moment of your time, please?
- Kann ich deine Jacke ausleihen?Can I borrow your jacket?
- Darf ich mir einen Keks nehmen?Can I have a cookie?
- Könnt i amoi probiern?Could I try it once?
- 976 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
In a quiet library, Julian asks Sarah for permission.
- JulianKann ich mich hier hinsetzen?Can I sit here?
- SarahJa, natürlich, Julian.Yes, of course, Julian.
- JulianDankeschön.Thank you.
- SarahGerne.You're welcome.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
