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Learn Japanese › Grammar › ja-request

~te mo ii desu ka (may I)

6 phrases with native audio and pronunciation. Tap play to listen — everything on this page is free to read.

Use this pattern to politely ask permission to do something. It's a common, friendly way to request approval in everyday situations.

How it works

  • Verb + てもいいですか

Example sentences

  1. トイレに行ってもいいですか。

    Is it okay to go to the bathroom?

  2. ここに座ってもいいですか。

    Is it okay to sit here?

  3. 水を飲んでもいいですか。

    Is it okay to drink water?

  4. 質問してもいいですか。

    Is it okay to ask a question?

  5. 窓を開けてもいいですか。

    Is it okay to open the window?

  6. 写真を撮ってもいいですか。

    Is it okay to take a photo?

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