Meaning
A question to ask if someone is able to do something.
Cultural Background
Direct questions are softened with 'cushion words'. Similar to Japan, age and status determine the verb ending used. Directness is more common in casual settings than in Japan. Directness is valued; 'Can you' is standard and rarely seen as rude.
The 'u' drop
In fast speech, 'masu' sounds like 'mass'.
Permission vs Ability
Don't use できますか for permission!
Meaning
A question to ask if someone is able to do something.
The 'u' drop
In fast speech, 'masu' sounds like 'mass'.
Permission vs Ability
Don't use できますか for permission!
Potential form
Learn the potential form (e.g., 泳げる) to sound more natural.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form.
ピアノが＿＿＿＿＿か？
The question particle 'ka' is required for a question.
Which sentence is correct for asking permission?
Choose the best option.
Use -te mo ii desu ka for permission.
Match the Japanese phrase to its English meaning.
Match: 1. 泳げますか 2. 予約できますか
泳ぐ = swim, 予約 = reservation.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 日本語ができますか？ B: ＿＿＿＿＿。
Both 'yes, I can' and 'no, I can't' are grammatically correct responses.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesピアノが＿＿＿＿＿か？
The question particle 'ka' is required for a question.
Choose the best option.
Use -te mo ii desu ka for permission.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
泳ぐ = swim, 予約 = reservation.
A: 日本語ができますか？ B: ＿＿＿＿＿。
Both 'yes, I can' and 'no, I can't' are grammatically correct responses.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, it uses the masu-form, which is polite.
Yes, it is very versatile.
One is a question, the other is a statement.
You might be using it for permission.
Mostly, but with different grammatical rules.
Use potential verbs instead of 'koto ga dekiru'.
Yes, but use humble language if needed.
No, use 'koto ga dekiru' for actions.
Say 'dekimasen'.
It is polite, not overly formal.
Yes, e.g., 'Can this be done?'
Yes, but often shortened to 'dekiru?'.
Related Phrases
～てもいいですか
contrastMay I do...?
～ことができます
builds onI can do...
～れますか
synonymCan you...?
無理です
contrastIt's impossible.
