1 / 12 2 / 12 3 / 12 4 / 12 5 / 12 6 / 12 7 / 12 8 / 12 9 / 12 10 / 12 11 / 12 12 / 12 ❮ ❯ The use of can to ask or grant permission has been common since the 19th century and is well established, although some commentators feel may is more appropriate in formal contexts.