May I please

USAGE SUMMARY

"May I please" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when asking for permission or to make a request. For example, "May I please borrow your pen?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

May I please just have this small while?

The New Yorker

May I please have your assurance that Ms. Alekhina will have access to vegan foods?

The New York Times

"May I please speak to Patrick?" There was an awkward silence.

The New York Times

If I "educate" my children by praying that they will one day get into Harvard, may I please have a subsidy from the Department of Education?

The Economist

"Phone conversations also don't start with 'hello, may I please speak to so-and-so,' anymore," said Mr. Rojas, editor of Engadget.com, a Web site of telecommunications technology.

The New York Times

This gritty genre realism is all very informative, you might say, but having traveled this far for a vacation, may I please have some restorative culture -- and perhaps some mindless fun?

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

May I ask, please, is this possible?" "I don't think so.

The New Yorker

May I ask, please … did you love it there?" "You should be doing your homework".

The New Yorker

When I crack my hip, Annabel says, "May I ask, please … doesn't that hurt?" "It helps me".

The New Yorker

And he concludes, "I may do what I please in private," adding, "but I must ring myself with a wall of propriety so high no one can see in".

The New York Times - Books

When I think about what my parents endured — the stares, the comments, the little things that really do take a toll — I am grateful for a society in which I may marry whomever I please and that decision is treated as mundane.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When making a request, especially in formal settings, using "May I please" adds a layer of politeness and consideration.

Common error

While "May I please" is polite, overusing it in casual conversations can sound overly formal or even sarcastic. Choose simpler phrases like "Can I" or "Could I" for everyday interactions.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "May I please" is to serve as a polite interrogative phrase used for requesting permission or making a courteous request. This aligns with Ludwig's analysis of the phrase as a tool for expressing politeness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

24%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

6%

Reference

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "May I please" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to politely request something or ask for permission. Ludwig highlights that this expression is generally considered formal to neutral, emphasizing courtesy. It's particularly suitable in situations where respect is important, although less appropriate in very informal contexts where it might sound overly stilted. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources, showcasing its relevance across diverse communication scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is it alright if I

Seeks simple confirmation of permission.

Could I possibly

Emphasizes politeness through the addition of "possibly".

If you don't mind, may I

Adds a conditional element, showing consideration.

Would you mind if I

Focuses on the other person's perspective and willingness.

I hope it's alright if I

Adds a note of hope that the request is acceptable.

I would be grateful if I could

Highlights the speaker's gratitude for the possibility.

I kindly request permission to

A direct and polite formal request.

May I be permitted to

Formal and emphasizes official authorization.

Might I inquire if I could

A very polite and indirect way of asking.

I wonder if I might

Expresses the request as a thought or consideration.

FAQs

How to use "May I please" in a sentence?

"May I please" is used to politely request something or ask for permission. For example, "May I please borrow your pen?" or "May I please be excused?".

What can I say instead of "May I please"?

You can use alternatives like "Could I", "Is it okay if I", or "Would you mind if I" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "May I please" or "Can I please"?

"May I please" is more formal and polite, while "Can I please" is more casual. Both are grammatically correct, but "May I please" is preferred in situations where showing respect is important.

When is it appropriate to use "May I please"?

It is appropriate to use "May I please" when making a polite request, especially to someone in a position of authority or when you want to show extra courtesy. It's also suitable in formal settings.