Permission (can, may) Grammar Exercises for English Language

Understanding how to ask for and grant permission is a fundamental aspect of effective communication in English. The use of "can" and "may" is common in these contexts, but knowing when and how to use each correctly can be tricky. "Can" is often used in informal situations to request or give permission, while "may" is considered more polite and formal. For example, "Can I borrow your pen?" is generally acceptable among peers or in casual settings, whereas "May I leave the room?" would be more appropriate in a formal setting or when speaking to someone in authority. Our grammar exercises are designed to help you master the nuances of using "can" and "may" in various contexts. Through a series of practical examples and engaging activities, you'll gain confidence in distinguishing between informal and formal requests and permissions. Whether you're learning English for personal, academic, or professional reasons, these exercises will provide you with the tools needed to communicate more effectively and politely. Dive in and start honing your skills to ensure you're always asking for and granting permission in the most appropriate manner.

Exercise 1 

<p>1. *May* I borrow your pen? (asking for permission)</p> <p>2. You *can* go to the park after you finish your homework. (allowed to)</p> <p>3. *Can* you help me with this math problem? (request for assistance)</p> <p>4. Students *may* leave the classroom once the bell rings. (formal permission)</p> <p>5. *Can* I have some more cake, please? (request for more)</p> <p>6. You *may* take the day off if you're not feeling well. (granting permission)</p> <p>7. *Can* we visit the museum this weekend? (seeking permission)</p> <p>8. Employees *may* use the conference room for meetings. (formal permission)</p> <p>9. *Can* you come to my party on Saturday? (invitation)</p> <p>10. The teacher said we *may* use our notes during the test. (allowed to)</p>
 

Exercise 2

<p>1. *May* I borrow your pen? (formal request)</p> <p>2. He *can* swim very well. (ability)</p> <p>3. She *may* join us for dinner. (possibility)</p> <p>4. You *can* leave early if you finish your work. (permission)</p> <p>5. *May* I have another slice of cake? (polite request)</p> <p>6. They *can* play outside after lunch. (permission)</p> <p>7. You *may* need an umbrella today. (possibility)</p> <p>8. *Can* you help me with this problem? (request for assistance)</p> <p>9. He *may* be late due to traffic. (possibility)</p> <p>10. The teacher said we *can* use calculators for the test. (permission)</p>
 

Exercise 3

<p>1. *Can* you help me with my homework? (asking for assistance)</p> <p>2. *May* I leave the table now? (asking for permission politely)</p> <p>3. She *can* play the piano very well. (ability to do something)</p> <p>4. *Can* we go outside and play? (asking if allowed)</p> <p>5. He *may* not enter the room without knocking. (permission denied)</p> <p>6. *May* I borrow your pen for a moment? (asking to use something)</p> <p>7. *Can* you tell me the time, please? (request for information)</p> <p>8. Students *can* use the library during lunch break. (permission granted)</p> <p>9. *May* I ask you a personal question? (seeking permission respectfully)</p> <p>10. They *can* come to the party if they finish their homework. (conditional permission)</p>
 

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