Permission
Is someone allowed to do it?
Meaning
Permission tells us whether an action is allowed. A person may give permission, and a rule may allow or forbid an action. Languages use special verb forms, small words, or expressions for this, and some have no separate permission form. Possibility concerns whether something can happen, not whether it is allowed.
How to spot it
Look for whether a person or rule allows or forbids an action, rather than whether someone can manage it.
In your native language
English uses can for everyday permission and may for more formal permission. Be allowed to states permission at different times, while let names the person who allows the action. Mustn't and not be allowed to express a ban; can't can also deny permission.
Can I open the window?
Can asks for permission in an ordinary conversation.
You may use the computer.
May grants permission with a more formal tone.
We weren't allowed to take photos inside.
This describes a ban that applied in the past.
In your learning language
Spanish commonly uses poder with an infinitive, the verb's dictionary form, to ask for or give permission. Dejar and permitir can also express permission, with a person followed by an infinitive or with que and a subjunctive verb form. No poder can express a prohibition, whereas no tener que means that an action is not required.
¿Puedo sentarme aquí?
May I sit here?
Mi madre me deja usar su bicicleta.
My mother lets me use her bicycle.
Me identifies the person who receives permission.
Aquí no se puede aparcar.
Parking is not allowed here.
No se puede states a prohibition that applies generally.
Learners whose language has separate expressions for permission and ability may read poder only as physical ability. Learners who confuse permission with obligation may use No tengo que entrar when they mean No puedo entrar, meaning that entry is not allowed.