may I go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may I go" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to politely ask for permission to leave or to proceed with something. Example: "Excuse me, may I go to the restroom?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

May I go home now?

The New Yorker

"May I go now?" she asked.

The New Yorker

In fact, may I go further?

The Guardian

May I go to the camp with the rebels?

The New York Times

"So, then, may I go home now?" he asked.

The New York Times - Magazine

May I go pick it up, please?' He says, 'Don't worry, my dear.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

At the end of May, I went to an annual awards ceremony for political journalists.

The New York Times

Where may I not go?

The New York Times

The Landlord's reissue may, I hope, go some way to slowing that slide into oblivion.

The Guardian - Film

-CHINESE SAYING I chatter, chatter, as I flow To join the brimming river, For men may come and men may go, But I go on forever.

Forbes

Wherever I've been or wherever I may go, I always seek out the hidden places.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may I go" when seeking polite permission, particularly in formal settings or when addressing authority figures. It indicates respect and acknowledgment of their position.

Common error

Avoid using "can I go" when seeking permission, as it inquires about ability rather than requesting authorization. While often used interchangeably in informal settings, "may I go" is more appropriate when politeness and respect are important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may I go" functions as an interrogative clause used to politely request permission. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It seeks approval or authorization from someone in a position of authority or simply as a polite inquiry.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

18%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "may I go" is a common and grammatically correct way to politely request permission to leave or proceed. According to Ludwig, it is widely used in various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Wiki sources. While "can I go" is often used informally, "may I go" is preferred in more formal settings to show respect. To ensure correct usage, remember that "may" seeks permission, while "can" refers to ability. Alternatives such as "am I allowed to go" or "could I leave" can also be used depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can I go

Replaces "may" with "can", making the request slightly less formal.

could I leave

A polite way to ask for permission to depart.

am I allowed to go

More formal and emphasizes permission being granted.

would it be alright if I left

A more tentative and polite way of asking to leave.

is it okay if I go

Expresses a request for permission in a more indirect way.

do you mind if I go

Checks if the listener has any objections to the speaker leaving.

is it permissible for me to go

Highly formal and emphasizes the permissibility of leaving.

I'd like to leave

A statement of intent to leave, implying a request for permission.

shall I take my leave

An old-fashioned and very polite way to ask for permission to depart.

permission to leave

A direct request for authorization to leave.

FAQs

How to use "may I go" in a sentence?

Use "may I go" to politely request permission to leave or proceed. For example, "Excuse me, "may I go" to the restroom?"

What can I say instead of "may I go"?

You can use alternatives like "can I go", "am I allowed to go", or "could I leave" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "may I go" or "can I go"?

"May I go" is generally considered more polite and grammatically correct when asking for permission. "Can I go" inquires about ability, but is often used informally for permission.

What's the difference between "may I go" and "am I allowed to go"?

"May I go" is a direct request for permission, while "am I allowed to go" emphasizes the permissibility of the action. The latter can be slightly more formal.