do you mind? (1)

This page is about the conversational phrase do you mind? (1)

Meaning

If someone says this in a friendly way, they're asking for permission to do something.

For example

  • A guy came to our table and pointed at the bottle of sauce. "Do you mind?" he said. "Not at all," I replied, "You can keep it."

  • I took my tray and found a seat. "Do you mind?" I said. I waited for the shrugs and nods, then sat down with six other inmates.

Quick Quiz

If someone says "Do you mind?" to ask for permission, they'll

a. make what they want clear

b. make it clear you must agree

c. use a firm and serious voice
a) make what they want clear b) make it clear you must agree c) use a firm and serious voice

Contributor: Matt Errey