Which phrase is an example of a permission question?

Which phrase is an example of a permission question?

• A. Tell me more about that.
• B. What do you want to do next?
• C. Can I ask you a question?
• D. Why do you think that happened?

Answer: (C)

Permission questions are statements that explicitly seek consent before proceeding with a next step in the conversation. The phrase “Can I ask you a question?” is the best example because it directly asks for permission to continue with a question, showing respect for the other person’s comfort and boundaries. In peer support, this kind of courteous check-in helps create a safe, collaborative space. The other phrases invite further talk or prompt a different kind of response but don’t specifically seek consent to continue with questioning. "Tell me more about that" invites additional information, "What do you want to do next?" asks about next actions, and "Why do you think that happened?" focuses on understanding rather than securing permission to speak.

Permission questions are statements that explicitly seek consent before proceeding with a next step in the conversation. The phrase “Can I ask you a question?” is the best example because it directly asks for permission to continue with a question, showing respect for the other person’s comfort and boundaries. In peer support, this kind of courteous check-in helps create a safe, collaborative space.

The other phrases invite further talk or prompt a different kind of response but don’t specifically seek consent to continue with questioning. "Tell me more about that" invites additional information, "What do you want to do next?" asks about next actions, and "Why do you think that happened?" focuses on understanding rather than securing permission to speak.