Which sentence correctly uses ‘may’ to formally request permission?

Explanation

In formal, traditional English, ‘may’ is the conventionally correct modal verb for politely requesting permission, as in ‘May I leave the room?’ While ‘can’ is very commonly used for the same purpose in everyday speech, ‘may’ remains the prescriptively correct choice tested in formal grammar exams, since ‘can’ traditionally expresses ability rather than permission. Explore more English MCQs on mcqstutor to keep practicing.