How do you say "Can I" in French?

"Can I" in French is "Est-ce que je peux". This phrase is commonly used in France.

❓

How to Say ‘Can I’ in French

Q: What does "Est-ce que je peux" mean in English?

"Est-ce que je peux" means "Can I" in English. Usage tip: [Est-ce que je peux] is a reusable way to ask permission: swap in another verb, like [Est-ce que je peux entrer ?] = "Can I come in?"

Est-ce que je peux

eh suh kuh zhuh puh

[eh suh kuh zhuh puh]

💬 Usage Tip: [Est-ce que je peux] is a reusable way to ask permission: swap in another verb, like [Est-ce que je peux entrer ?] = "Can I come in?"

Phrase Breakdown

Est

[eh]

Part of the question pattern est-ce que, used to form a yes/no question.

Example

Est-ce que je peux poser une question avant de commencer ?

May I ask a question before starting?

-ce

[suh]

question marker

This is part of est-ce que, a fixed expression that introduces a question in French.

Example

Est-ce que je peux rester après le cours ?

May I stay after class?

que

[kuh]

that

In est-ce que, que is part of the standard question structure rather than meaning that by itself.

Example

Est-ce que je peux vous montrer mon exercice ?

May I show you my exercise?

[zhuh]

The subject pronoun used when you speak about yourself.

Example

Est-ce que je peux venir au tableau ?

May I come to the board?

peux

[puh]

can / may

From the verb pouvoir; used to ask permission or say what you are able to do.

Example

Est-ce que je peux vous parler après le cours ?

May I speak to you after class?

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Custom Scenarios

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Moved to Lyon for a culinary apprenticeship. The food and restaurant scenarios were exactly what I needed — my French colleagues were genuinely impressed.”

Tom H., 38, Chef

“Studying in Paris and the academic French I learned in school was useless for daily life. This app filled the gap in weeks, not months.”

Nina W., 29, Graduate Student

“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”

Alex M., 42, Software Engineer