How to Say ‘May I do it?’ in Japanese
してもいいですか。
shi te mo ii desu ka
[shee te mo ee dess kah]
💬 Usage Tip: Use the て form of a verb plus もいいですか to ask "may I…?". For example, 座ってもいいですか means "may I sit?".
Phrase Breakdown
し
shi
[shee]
do (stem)
Verb stem used as part of the fixed polite request phrase.
注文をお願いし、ます。
I would like to place the order, please.
て
te
[te]
te-form ending
Connects actions in sequence, like 'and' or 'then'.
ドアが開いて、入ります。
The door opens, and then I go in.
も
mo
[mo]
also; even
Part of でも, adding the nuance of something like or maybe.
コーヒーでも飲みましょう。
Let's have coffee or something.
いい
ii
[ee]
good; okay
Means good or okay. In permission phrases, it helps form polite questions like asking if something is alright.
ここに座ってもいいですかと丁寧に聞きます。
You politely ask, “Is it okay if I sit here?”
です
desu
[dess]
is; polite copula
A polite sentence ending used in formal conversation.
少し伺いたいです。
I would like to ask a little.
か
ka
[kah]
question marker
Placed at the end of a sentence to make it a question.
A席はありますか。
Are there A seats available?
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 feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager