2006-07-01 17:54:43 · 7 answers · asked by infa_red19 1 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
It gives the person the option to say, sorry I don't want to answer that.
2006-07-01 17:57:50 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
when using the word 'may' you are asking for permission, such as 'may i have' or 'may i help you', and so on. when using the word 'can' you are asking about the ability of someone. when used in the context of 'can i speak two languages'? you are asking yourself of your own abilities. usually 'can' is used in speaking to another person as we kind of know our abilities & limitations. for most american/english speakers, the use of 'can' and 'may' are inter-changeable but to the purists, like me, you could drive a truck through the difference. it is also quite polite & shows you have class. use it correctly for one week, watch other people's faces when you correct them & see how they look at you in a different light. why are these words followed by a question? because when using these words, you ARE asking a question. ok?
2006-07-02 01:07:00 · answer #2 · answered by blackjack432001 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why don't you respond quickly: no you may not! and mean so. Then you'll see deeper...dig deeper and you'll discover many interesting things. But you must be prepared of being non-judgmental, otherwise you might be beaten up.
2006-07-02 01:08:26 · answer #3 · answered by Oleg B 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Same as point as saying , do you mind? Why say it when your going to ask or do it anyway
2006-07-02 01:06:19 · answer #4 · answered by sponggie 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sort of sounds like you were taught manners, lost art these days"may I say?"
2006-07-02 12:13:12 · answer #5 · answered by matt 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the same reason we say "Bless you" when you sneeze eventhough we now know its not a deamon taking over you. its to be polite
2006-07-02 01:04:11 · answer #6 · answered by Jessica 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they want to judge you receptiveness, and are being polite.
2006-07-02 01:04:32 · answer #7 · answered by travelin_jalapeno 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋