“Can I…?” in Egyptian Arabic

In Egyptian Arabic, “Can I…?” is written using the Latin script as:

Ana momkn…?

Using the Arabic script, it is written as:

انا ممكن…؟ 

(Editor’s note: In Egyptian Arabic, the literal translation for “Can I…?” is Ana momkn…? / انا ممكن…؟, however, when constructing statements of this nature, it’s most common not to use the word Ana / انا because its presence is implied.)

Listen to this phrase pronounced (audio)

 

Examples in sentences or statements

 
“Can I have a coffee, please?”

Momkn a5od 2ahwa, b3d 2znk?

ممكن اخد قهوة، بعد اذنك؟

 
“Can I borrow this umbrella?”

Momkn 2astelf el 4amseyah de?

ممكن استلف الشمسية دي؟

 
“Can I get some change back?”

Momkn a5od 4ewayet fakah?

ممكن اخد شوية فكه؟

 
“Can I call you back in 5 minutes?”

Momkn 2rga3 2klmk 5lal 5 d2aye2?

ممكن ارجع اكلمك خلال ٥ دقايق؟

 
“Can I get an aisle seat?”

Momkn a5od korci fe el mamr?

ممكن اخد كرسي في الممر؟

 

In other Mediterranean languages and dialects

“Can I…?” in Lebanese Arabic

“Can I…?” in Tunisian Arabic