JLPT N5 Grammar
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May / it's okay to
Category: Te-form Patterns
The grammar pattern 〜てもいい is used to express permission or to ask for permission. It is formed by attaching もいい (or polite form もいいです) to the te-form of a verb. This pattern is often used in polite or formal situations to show respect for the other person's opinion or decision. For example, when asking for permission to do something, the speaker is showing that they value the other person's opinion and are willing to follow their decision.
| Form | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Te-form of the verb | Verb te-form + もいい | 窓を開けてもいい |
| Polite te-form of the verb | Verb te-form + もいいです | 窓を開けてもいいです |
| Te-form of the verb with です | Verb te-form + です + もいい | 窓を開けてもいいです |
すみません、ここに窓を開けてもいいですか?
Sumimasen, koko ni mado ga akete mo ii desu ka?
Excuse me, may I open the window here?
すみません (excuse me), ここに (here), 窓を開けて (open the window), もいい (may I), ですか (question particle)
先生、宿題は明日窓を開けてもいいですか?
Sensei, shukudai wa ashita mado ga akete mo ii desu ka?
Teacher, may I open the window tomorrow to do my homework?
先生 (teacher), 宿題 (homework), 明日 (tomorrow), 窓を開けて (open the window), もいい (may I), ですか (question particle)
ここに窓を開けてもいいです。
Koko ni mado ga akete mo ii desu.
It's okay to open the window here.
ここに (here), 窓を開けて (open the window), もいい (okay), です (polite ending)
The grammar pattern 〜てもいい is used to express permission or to ask for permission in polite or formal situations. It is often used in situations where the speaker is asking for permission from someone in a position of authority or respect. In contrast, 〜てはいけない is used to express prohibition or to refuse permission.
This is a common mistake because the two patterns are similar, but they have opposite meanings. To avoid this mistake, it's essential to understand the context and the speaker's intention.
This mistake can be avoided by paying close attention to the correct pattern and making sure to include the particle も between the te-form and いい.
This pattern is typically used in situations where the speaker is showing respect for the other person's opinion or decision. In informal situations, it's more common to use simpler patterns like 〜ていい or 〜ていいよ.
When taking the JLPT, be sure to pay close attention to the context and the speaker's intention. If the speaker is asking for permission or expressing permission, look for the pattern 〜てもいい. Also, be careful not to confuse this pattern with 〜てはいけない, which expresses prohibition.
すみません、ここに______か。
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