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How to Say ‘Can I take a photo?’ in Simplified Chinese

可以拍照吗?

kě yǐ pāi zhào ma

[kuh-ee pie-jaow ma]

💬 Usage Tip: [可以…吗?] is a useful pattern for asking permission: [可以进来吗?] 'Can I come in?' [可以坐这儿吗?] 'Can I sit here?'.

Phrase Breakdown

可以

kě yǐ

[kuh-ee]

can; may; be allowed to

可以 is used to ask for permission or say something is possible.

Example

这里可以拍照吗?

Can I take photos here?

拍照

pāi zhào

[pie-jaow]

to take photos

拍照 means to take a picture or photos with a camera or phone.

Example

博物馆里不能拍照。

You cannot take photos in the museum.

ma

[ma]

question particle

吗 is placed at the end to make the sentence a yes-no question.

Example

现在进去吗?

Are we going in now?

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