Meaning
A polite way to ask for permission to do something.
Cultural Background
Using 'yoroshii' is part of 'Kizukai' (anticipating others' needs). By asking permission for small things, you show you are not self-centered. In high-end Ryokan (inns), staff will use this phrase for every action, from entering the room to pouring tea, to ensure the guest feels in control. Students in Japan rarely use 'ii desu ka' with professors. 'Yoroshii desu ka' is the baseline for showing respect to a sensei's expertise. Even in crowded trains, if you need to move someone's bag to sit, using this phrase can prevent conflict in a society that avoids direct confrontation.
The 'Deshou' Upgrade
If you really want to impress a Japanese boss, use '〜てもよろしいでしょうか'. It sounds much more sophisticated.
Don't over-use with friends
It makes you sound like you're keeping them at arm's length. Stick to '〜ていい？'
Meaning
A polite way to ask for permission to do something.
The 'Deshou' Upgrade
If you really want to impress a Japanese boss, use '〜てもよろしいでしょうか'. It sounds much more sophisticated.
Don't over-use with friends
It makes you sound like you're keeping them at arm's length. Stick to '〜ていい？'
The Silent Permission
Sometimes, a slight bow and a look of inquiry is enough, but saying the phrase is always safer for learners.
Test Yourself
Choose the most appropriate phrase for a job interview when asking to enter the room.
{失礼|しつれい}します。____。
In a job interview, '〜てもよろしいですか' is the expected level of formality.
Complete the sentence to ask for permission to take a photo in a museum.
{写真|しゃしん}を____もよろしいですか。
The phrase requires the Te-form of the verb {撮|と}る (to take a photo).
Finish the dialogue between a shop clerk and a customer.
Clerk: {袋|ふくろ}にお{入|い}れしてもよろしいですか。 Customer: ____。
When someone asks you '〜てもよろしいですか', the standard polite response is 'Hai, onegaishimasu'.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
The Politeness Ladder
Practice Bank
3 exercises{失礼|しつれい}します。____。
In a job interview, '〜てもよろしいですか' is the expected level of formality.
{写真|しゃしん}を____もよろしいですか。
The phrase requires the Te-form of the verb {撮|と}る (to take a photo).
Clerk: {袋|ふくろ}にお{入|い}れしてもよろしいですか。 Customer: ____。
When someone asks you '〜てもよろしいですか', the standard polite response is 'Hai, onegaishimasu'.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, essentially. It is the formal version used in Keigo.
Yes, it is very appropriate for teachers and professors.
'Kamaimasen ka' specifically asks if it's 'no problem' or 'not a bother,' while 'yoroshii desu ka' asks if it's 'good/appropriate.'
Usually 'Hai, douzo' (Yes, please) or 'Hai, kamaimasen' (Yes, I don't mind).
Related Phrases
〜てもいいですか
similarMay I? (Polite)
〜てもよろしいでしょうか
specialized formWould it be acceptable?
〜させていただけますか
builds onCould I be allowed to...?
〜てもかまいませんか
similarDo you mind if I...?
