puis-je t'embrasser ?
The French phrase for "can I kiss you?" is puis-je t'embrasser ?
This phrase is a polite request for permission to kiss someone.
What does it mean word for word?
The form puis-je is a highly formal way to say "may I" or "can I" in a question, involving inversion of the verb and subject.
Which one should you use?
The default form puis-je t'embrasser ? uses the informal tu, whereas the version with vous is used for formal or plural contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
When addressing someone formally or if you are addressing more than one person, use the form puis-je vous embrasser ?
Did you know?
- In certain French-speaking regions like parts of Belgium or Switzerland, the word baiser is sometimes used for a kiss, but in France, that word is a vulgarity and must be avoided.
- The verb embrasser is related to the English word 'embrace', as both come from the Latin 'bracchia' meaning 'arms'.
- The word embrasser can also mean 'to encompass' or 'to include' when talking about a wide range of topics or a large area.
Example conversation
A couple is saying goodnight after a date.
- LéaC'était une soirée merveilleuse, Gabriel.It was a wonderful evening, Gabriel.
- GabrielMoi aussi, j'ai passé un super moment.Me too, I had a great time.
- LéaPuis-je t'embrasser ?Can I kiss you?
- GabrielOui, bien sûr, Léa.Yes, of course, Léa.
