Asking if you can
Use 可以 to ask if something is allowed or possible, and soften a verb with 下
Use 可以 to ask if something is allowed or possible, and soften a verb with 下. Work through clear examples, then lock it in with interactive Cantonese practice in the YumCha app.
Asking if you can
Renting a flat means asking a lot of questions. To ask if something is allowed or possible, lead with **can** and close with a **question word**: a polite way to check before you act. You can also soften a verb to mean **do a bit of it**, like “take a look” or “give it a try”.
May I? Asking permission
我 可唔可以 + verb + 呀？ → 可以 (yes) / 唔可以 (no)
可以 means “can” or “may”. To ask if something is allowed, split it into the yes-no form 可唔可以 and put 呀 at the end: 我可唔可以養狗呀? means “may I keep a dog?”. To answer, just say 可以 for yes or 唔可以 for no. Adding 下 after a verb softens it to “do a bit”: 睇下 means “take a look”, 試下 means “give it a try”.
May I keep a dog?
Yes you may, but just don't make noise that disturbs the neighbours.
May I take a look at the room?
No, you can only view the room next week.
You can ask now
To ask if something is allowed, lead with **can** and close with the **question word**. Answer with a plain **yes** or **no can**. Tack **a bit** onto a verb when you only want to look around or try something out before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Asking if you can lesson free?
Yes. This Cantonese lesson is free to read online, with romanization and meanings for every word. In the YumCha app, your first lesson is free to try, and vocabulary practice, flashcards, and the dictionary stay free. A subscription unlocks the full interactive lesson path.
What romanization is used?
Both Jyutping and Yale, and you can switch between them. The romanization sits above every word, so you always know the pronunciation.
Do I need to read Chinese characters to start?
No. Romanization sits above every character and audio plays each word, so you can start speaking from your first lesson.