may I tell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may I tell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when asking for permission to share information or convey a message. Example: "May I tell you about my recent trip to Europe?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

And then she practically whispered: "May I tell you something?

The New York Times

Some … Mara?" "Well…" "Mr. Schickler … may I tell you, please?

The New Yorker

We chatted for a minute and then, her bright blue eyes twinkling, she said: "May I tell you something?

The New York Times

At what age may I tell the girl she's acting like a fool, without alienating her mother?

The New York Times

I don't have children, but may I tell my buddy what a brat his son is becoming?Will, Westchester County, N.Y.

The New York Times

Say, for example, "May I tell you my thoughts on that?" Don't change the topic.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

When the game ended, Summerall told Madden: "May I say it's been great, a great year, an educational one for me.

The New York Times - Sports

Be that as it may, I can tell you that that is not the experience of many volunteers — or residents — of the Rockaways.

The New York Times

"When I think a caller may be dodgy I tell them I would like to take them through my security system – and then I ask the following questions: "What is: (1) your name?

Independent

As aggravated as I may get when I tell you to "behave!" and you don't listen, one day that defiance will serve you well.

Huffington Post

Stating "You're not supposed to ask" may seem negative, so I tell my students to say, "Your program is at the top of my list".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may I tell" to politely seek permission before sharing information, especially in formal or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "may I tell" when you are expected to provide information. In such scenarios, a direct statement is more appropriate and efficient than seeking permission.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may I tell" functions as a polite interrogative phrase used to seek permission before imparting information. This is supported by examples where individuals preface statements with this phrase, indicating a desire to share something but acknowledging the need for the listener's consent. Ludwig confirms that this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may I tell" serves as a polite and grammatically correct way to ask for permission before sharing information, as validated by Ludwig. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal settings, particularly news, media, and scientific contexts. For less formal interactions, alternatives like "can I share" may be more appropriate. Remember that it signals respect for boundaries in conversation and is not meant for times when you are expected to share information or have already been asked to share information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can I share

Uses a more direct and informal modal verb.

could I mention

Offers a slightly more polite alternative using "could" instead of "may".

might I add

Suggests adding information to an existing conversation.

would you mind if I said

Introduces a question of politeness regarding a potentially unwelcome statement.

am I permitted to inform you

Emphasizes formality and permission.

should I mention

Explores whether or not a suggestion is appropriate in a given moment.

do you want to know

Presents the information as something of interest to another party.

let me inform you

Implies a degree of authority or certainty about the information.

allow me to tell you

Frames the statement as a granted allowance.

is it okay if I disclose

Seeks reassurance that revealing something will not be problematic.

FAQs

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

"May I tell" is used to politely ask for permission to share information or make a statement. For example, "May I tell you about my research findings?"

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

Alternatives include "can I share", "could I mention", or "might I add", depending on the level of formality and context.

Is "may I tell you" more formal than "can I tell you"?

Yes, "may I tell you" is generally considered more formal than "can I tell you". "May" indicates a request for permission and is suitable for professional or polite interactions, while "can" is more informal and focuses on ability.

When is it appropriate to use "may I tell"?

It's appropriate in situations where you want to show respect and politeness, such as in professional environments, formal conversations, or when speaking with someone in authority. For less formal settings, using "can I tell" or another similar phrase may be more suitable.