〜てもいい

Can...; It's okay to...

1. Overview

「〜てもいい」 is a Japanese expression used to indicate permission or allowance to do something. It conveys the speaker's acceptance or approval of a certain action.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Verb (te-form) + もいい
  • i-adjective (te-form) + もいい
  • na-adjective (te-form) + もいい
  • Noun + であれば + もいい

• Explanation: This structure emphasizes that a certain action is permitted, and it is commonly used to ask for permission or to grant it.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: It is often used in both spoken and written Japanese to request permission or indicate a situation where something is allowed.

• Translation: It is generally translated as "can..." or "it's okay to...".

4. Example Sentences

1. ここに座ってもいいですか？
   Can I sit here?

2. この本を借りてもいいですか？
   Can I borrow this book?

3. もう少し遅く帰ってもいいですよ。
   You can come home a little later.

4. 食べてもいいけど、あまり食べすぎないでね。
   You can eat, but don't eat too much.

5. 友達を家に呼んでもいい？
   Can I invite a friend over?

5. Alternative Grammar

• 〜てもかまわない: Expresses a similar sense of permission or acceptance.
  • Example: 行ってもかまわない。
    It's okay to go.

6. Related Grammar

• 〜てもよろしいですか: A more formal way to ask for permission.
  • Example: この席に座ってもよろしいですか？
    May I sit in this seat?

7. Notes

• Context: 「〜てもいい」 can be used in everyday conversations to express permission or confirm that something is allowed. It is suitable for interactions with friends or acquaintances.

• Tone: This expression is typically casual, conveying acceptance and permission regarding the action.

8. Summary

「〜てもいい」 is a way to express permission or allowance to do something. It is widely used in both spoken and written language, emphasizing that a certain action is recognized as acceptable and suitable for various social situations.