Can/May I ask you a question? (2024)

1. Can I ask you a question?
2. May I ask you a question?

Assuming that the person who is asking has the ability to ask questions. Which one is correct?
I think it should be #2.

Hello baab,

these previous threads might help you:
May/Can I ask your name?
Can I sit down / May I sit down?
"May I do" vs. "Can I do"
"can I" and "may I"
etc.

Thanks. I will summary what I understood here.

Can I ask you a question?
Talking about capability.
May I ask you a question?
Asking for permission.
In addition, "may" version is more polite than the "can" version.
Please correct me if I am wrong.

baab said:

Can I ask you a question?
Talking about capability.

Click to expand...

Yes, technically "can" deals with capability, but I don't think anyone realistically thinks of a stranger saying "Can I ask you a question?" as "Am I capable of asking you a question?"

baab said:

May I ask you a question?
Asking for permission.
In addition, "may" version is more polite than the "can" version.

Click to expand...

Realistically speaking, both ask for permission and neither is offensive, but yes, "may" is still more polite than "can."