谁？
shéi?
Who?
How to ask "Is it okay?" in Chinese
可以吗？
kěyǐ ma?
Is it okay?
Character breakdown
Grammar and structure
This is a simple question: 可以 (kěyǐ) "can/okay" + 吗 (ma) question particle. It's a fixed expression for seeking approval.
Variations and politeness
可以
kěyǐ
It's okay. — Shorter, without the question.
可以吗？
kěyǐ ma?
Is it okay? — Standard question form.
可以不可以？
kěyǐ bù kěyǐ?
Is it okay or not? — More colloquial, adds emphasis.
Mini dialogue
A
我可以借你的书吗？
Wǒ kěyǐ jiè nǐ de shū ma?
Can I borrow your book?
B
当然可以！
Dāngrán kěyǐ!
Of course you can!
When to use it
Appropriate
- When you want to ask if something is acceptable or allowed.
- When you need to confirm a plan or time with someone.
- When you want to politely request permission for a small favor.
Avoid when
- When asking about ability (use 能 néng or 会 huì instead).
- When asking for a factual possibility (use 可能 kěnéng).
Frequently asked questions
How do you say 'Is it okay?' in Chinese?
You can say 可以吗？ (kěyǐ ma?). It literally means 'Can it?' or 'Is it okay?' and is used to ask for permission or approval.
How do you pronounce 可以吗?
It is pronounced kěyǐ ma? The third tone on kě and yǐ often becomes a half-third tone in fast speech, and ma is neutral.
When do you use 可以吗?
Use 可以吗? when you want to check if something is acceptable or allowed, such as asking to borrow something or suggesting a time. It is polite and casual.
More phrases for this situation
Tomyo
Learn Chinese with spaced repetition
Remember 可以吗？ and hundreds of other phrases with smart reviews, audio and examples.