# Mandarin Chinese: 可以 + Verb + 吗?

Difficulty: beginner

Use 可以 (can/may) + a verb + 吗 (question particle) to ask for permission politely. It's softer and more respectful than a direct request. 可以加你微信吗? (Can I add your WeChat?)

## Related Vocabulary

| Word | Pronunciation | Meaning |
| --- | --- | --- |
| [打电话](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/to-make-a-phone-call.md) | /dǎ diàn huà/ | to make a phone call |
| [唱](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/to-sing.md) | /chàng/ | to sing |
| [吧](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/particle-for-suggestions-softening.md) | /ba/ | (particle for suggestions, softening) |
| [不客气](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/youre-welcome.md) | /bú kè qì/ | you're welcome |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is "可以 + Verb + 吗?" in Mandarin Chinese?

Use 可以 (can/may) + a verb + 吗 (question particle) to ask for permission politely. It's softer and more respectful than a direct request. 可以加你微信吗? (Can I add your WeChat?)

### Is this grammar topic for beginners?

This topic is at the beginner level. It is a great starting point for new learners.

## Related Grammar Topics

- [我喜欢 + Noun/Verb](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/grammar/nounverb.md) (beginner)
- [想 + Verb (Polite Suggestion)](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/grammar/verb-polite-suggestion.md) (beginner)
- [The Four Tones](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/grammar/the-four-tones.md) (beginner)

---

*Orphi — Speak Your Way to Fluency. [Browse all languages](https://useorphi.com/learn.md) · [View on the web](https://useorphi.com).*