How to Say ‘May I ask a question?’ in Japanese
質問してもいいですか？
shitsumon shi te mo ii desu ka
[sheet-SOO-mohn shee teh mo ee-ee dess ka]
💬 Usage Tip: Add もいいですか to the て form of a verb to ask permission. For example, 座ってもいいですか "may I sit down?"
Phrase Breakdown
質問しても
shitsumon shi te mo
even if I ask a question
質問する (shitsumon suru) means 'to ask a question'. The ～ても (-temo) form means 'even if'.
後で質問してもいいです。
You may ask questions later.
Words in this phrase
質問
shitsumon
[sheet-SOO-mohn]
question
Something you ask to get information.
質問があります。
I have a question.
し
shi
[shee]
do
し is the stem of する, meaning to do.
予約しします。
I do the reservation.
て
te
[teh]
and; -te form
A linking form used to connect verbs to following grammar, such as progressive or polite forms.
仕事を探している人と話しました。
I spoke with a person who is looking for work.
も
mo
[mo]
even
Indicating emphasis or inclusion.
私も驚いた。
Even I was surprised.
いいですか？
ii desu ka
is it okay?
いい (ii) means 'good / okay'; hold the long 'ii'. ですか (desu ka) makes it a polite question.
座ってもいいですか？
May I sit down?
Words in this phrase
いい
ii
[ee-ee]
good; nice
A common adjective used to show approval or a positive impression.
その考えはいいですね。
That idea is nice.
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
[ka]
question particle
Used to create a yes/no question in informal speech.
行くか？
Shall we go?
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