Can I play with you?

Meaning: This means that you are asking someone if you can join them in an activity.

Choice of Words: Can is used to ask for permission or ability to do something. I refers to the speaker. Play means to engage in a game or activity for enjoyment. With indicates that the activity will be done together with someone. You is used to address the person you are asking.

Alternative Expressions

Can you play with me?

Meaning: This means to ask someone if they can join in on what you are doing. It's like saying, Is it okay if I do the same activity as you?

Choice of Words: Can is a helping verb that asks for permission or ability. You is the pronoun for the person being addressed. Play is a verb that means to have fun or participate in a game or activity. With is a preposition that means to be together or involved in something. Me is the pronoun for the person speaking. When you put them together, "Can you play with me?" is a question asking if the person being addressed can join in on a game or activity.

May I play with you?

Meaning: This means to ask someone if you can join in on what they are doing. It's like saying, Is it okay if I do the same activity as you?

Choice of Words: May is a more formal verb that asks for permission. I is the pronoun for the person speaking. Play is a verb that means to have fun or participate in a game or activity. With is a preposition that means to be together or involved in something. You is the pronoun for the person being addressed. When you put them together, "May I play with you?" is a polite question asking if the speaker can join in on a game or activity.

Related Expressions