Can I ask you something?
A2
Everyday Phrase
Neutral
Very Common
Meaning
A polite way to show that you want to ask a question.
When to use it
People say "Can I ask you something?" to friends, family, colleagues or other people before asking a question. It is neutral and common in everyday conversation, especially before a personal question. It is less suitable when someone needs urgent help and you should ask your question directly.
Example Sentence
Can I ask you something about the project?
Grammar & structure
Can + I + ask + you + something? You can add about + a topic: "Can I ask you something about the homework?"
✓ Correct
Can I ask you something about tomorrow's meeting?
Mum, can I ask you something?
Can I ask you something about this jacket?
✗ Incorrect
Can I ask you something about she?
Can I ask you something about you job?
Use the base verb ask after can. "Can I ask you something?" sounds polite with a friendly tone.
How to reply
Similar expressions
Could I ask you something?
A little softer and more polite.
Can I ask you a question?
Very similar in meaning and tone.
Do you have a minute?
Checks whether someone has time to talk, not just time for a question.
Common mistakes
✗ Can I ask you something about she?
✓ Can I ask you something about her?
After about, use her, not she.
✗ Can I ask you something about you job?
✓ Can I ask you something about your job?
Use your before a noun to show that it belongs to the person.
Dialogue
Two colleagues are talking in the office kitchen.
Maya
Ben, can I ask you something?
Ben
Sure. What's up?
Maya
How do you get to work? I'm looking for a cheaper way.
Ben
I take the bus. It's much cheaper than driving.
Maya
Which bus do you take?
Ben
The number twelve. It stops right outside.
Complete the conversation
1. A: Can I ask you something?
B: ___
2. A: You look like you want to ask me a question.
B: ___
Never forget "Can I ask you something?" again
Reinforce idioms and expressions with your daily goal in the Vocab5000 app and learn them for good with a scientifically proven repetition system. Start for free now.
