～てもいい (Verb)
It's okay to, It's alright to, Can/may
Structure
Explanation
The Japanese grammar pattern Verb + てもいい is used to grant permission, indicating that an action is permissible or acceptable. When formed as a question, it is a common way to ask for permission to do something.
- このパソコンを使ってもいいですよ。It's fine for you to use this computer.
- ここで写真を撮ってもいいです。It is okay to take pictures here.
- 窓を閉めてもいいですか？Is it alright if I close the window?
- ここに座ってもいいですか？May I sit here?
This expression often appears without the も particle. This form, ていい, is more informal and direct, so it is best reserved for conversations with friends or family.
This grammar is a combination of the て form of a verb, the particle も (meaning 'even' or 'also'), and いい (good), literally translating to 'even if (you do the verb), it is good'.
Caution
Since this grammar pattern requires the て-form, remember that certain verbs conjugate to で instead of て.
Examples
ここに入ってもいい？
May I come in?
電話をしてもいい？
Can I make a call?
ちょっと疲れました。少し休んでもいいですか。
I'm a little tired. Is it okay if I rest for a bit?
ここに座ってもいいです。
You may sit here.
ここで写真を撮ってもいいですか。
Is it alright to take pictures here?
もう帰ってもいいです。
You may go home now.
このパソコンを使ってもいいですか。
May I use this computer?
もう寝てもいいだろう。
It's probably okay to go to sleep now, right?
窓を開けてもいいです。
It's okay for you to open the window.
この本を借りてもいい？
Is it okay if I borrow this book?
電気を消してもいいですか。
May I turn off the lights?