GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜てもいい
Follows a verb in connective form to indicate that an action is permitted.
Examples
ここに座ってもいいです。
You may sit here.
この席に荷物を置いてもいいですか。
May I put my luggage on this seat?
Words used
分からないときは質問してもいいですよ。
You may ask a question when you do not understand.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Add
もいいafter a verb'sてform. - Basic usage:
ここに座ってもいいです。gives permission to sit.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Permission and a request for permission
置いてもいいですstates that placing something is allowed, while置いてもいいですかasks whether it is allowed. Question-markingかchanges the roles of speaker and listener.
- Inflection and obligation
- Some verbs have a
てform ending inで, as in読む → 読んでもいい. - A permitted action may be performed; this differs from an obligation to perform it.
- Some verbs have a