Last week we have learned the basic rule and structure about “てもいいです”, and I left a quiz to you. Have you figured it out already? In today’s lesson, I will show you the answer to the quiz, then show you a further extension about this phrase. First, let’s recall the quiz.
Do you think you can use the following answer phrase to everyone?
A: ここにコートをかけてもいいですか。(Can I put your coat here?)
B: いいですよ。(It’s okay.)
The answer actually depends. If A and B are an equal level of the relationship such as friends, couples, families, the above conversation has no problem. However, if A and B are not equal level which means A is the supervisor, professor, boss, then B’s phrase is rude. Therefore, it is clear to see that the answer will differ based on the different situation, as A is the one who asks for permission and B is the one who gives the permission. If you are asked for the permission from someone superior to you, you must be careful about your response.
Now, I will introduce 3 main different situations to use “てもいいです”.
- Officially ask for permission.
Assistant: すみません。午後、会議室を使ってもいいでしょうか？(Excuse me. May I use the meeting room this afternoon?)
Supervisor: ええ、いいですよ。(Sure. No problem.)
- Confirm if doing something would cause inconvenience to that person.
A: ここに座ってもいいですか？(May I sit here?)
B: ええ、いいですよ。(Sure. No problem.)
- Begging for something.
Kid: あのおもちゃ、買ってもいい。(I wanna that toy. Can you buy it for me?)
Mom: ええ、いいですよ。(Sure. No problem.)
In the beginning stage of learning, you don’t need to worry about No. 3’s usage. No. 1 and 2 basically cover most situation to use “てもいいです”. It is clear to see that “敬語(honorific)” is absolutely necessary in the case 1, and 2 is presented in a more casual manner.
I hope you enjoy the lesson. See you next week!