How to Say ‘May I?’ in Japanese
いいですか
ii desu ka
[ee dess kah]
💬 Usage Tip: [いいですか] literally means something like "is it okay?" and gets used for polite requests: [ここ、いいですか。] means "Is this seat okay? / May I sit here?"
Phrase Breakdown
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; am; are
A polite copula used to make statements and questions sound formal and courteous.
それは素敵ですと伝えると丁寧です。
Saying “That is lovely” sounds polite.
か
ka
[kah]
question marker
Added at the end of a sentence to turn it into a question in polite Japanese.
隣、いいですかの「か」で質問になります。
The “ka” in “Tonari, ii desu ka” makes it a question.
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 LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“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