Permission is the action of allowing someone to do a particular thing. It is a consent or authorization. Permission is asked, granted or sometimes refused. Here are some most commonly used expressions for asking permission, granting permission and refusing permission:
ASKING PERMISSION
| Can I come in? |
| Could I use your mobile, please? |
| Can I have your pen? |
| Do you mind if I sit here? |
| Do you think I could…? |
| May I have a talk with you? |
| Is it possible to…? |
| Is it all right if I join…? |
| May I close the door, please? |
| Would you mind if I…? |
| Would you let me take it home for a day? |
| Would it be OK if I…? |
| I wonder if I could borrow $100? |
GIVING PERMISSION
| Yes, why not? |
| Yes, of course |
| Yes, you can |
| Yes, certainly |
| Yes, if you want |
| Yes, that’s fine |
| Sure, go ahead |
| No problem |
| Not a problem |
| I don’t mind |
| You’re allowed to… |
| You may… |
REFUSING PERMISSION
| Sorry, you can’t |
| I’m sorry |
| Sorry |
| Sorry, you are not permitted |
| I can’t allow you to do it |
| I’m afraid not |
| I’m afraid, but you can’t |
| I’m afraid that’s impossible |
| I’m afraid it’s out of the question |
| No, please don’t |
| Unfortunately, I have to say no |
| You’d better ask Clara |
| You couldn’t do that |
| Its OK with me but you must ask Smith |
