Why Small Words Cause Big Risks in Global Business
- Ann Desseyn
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
In a contract, two words can change liability. In a meeting, they can shift how a colleague perceives authority. Across languages and cultures, can and may carry meanings that reach far beyond grammar.
The English Divide: Ability vs Permission
Formal/business usage:
“Employees may work remotely two days a week.” (May = official permission).
Everyday workplace talk:
“Can I jump on this call?” (Can = informal request).
Technical/engineering:
“The system may overheat under pressure” (possibility), versus “The system can process 1000 units” (ability).
In a multinational setting, the wrong choice between can and may can blur responsibility, authority, or even compliance boundaries.
What Happens Across Languages
German: können often translates both can and may. A literal “You can send me the file now” may come across as a command in English, not permission.
French: pouvoir handles both functions. Je peux entrer ? sounds natural in Paris, but “I can enter?” in an English boardroom sounds awkward.
Japanese: Permission leans on harmony: shite mo ii desu ka? (literally “Is it good if I do it?”). Direct translations into English can seem hesitant or overly formal.
Spanish: poder works both ways. ¿Puedo…? is fine in Madrid; in English, “May I…” sounds stiff in casual contexts.
Cross-Cultural Tensions in the Workplace
The unintentional command A German colleague says: “You can join the call at 3pm.” They mean “You’re welcome to join,” but it may sound like a directive.
The awkwardly formal request A Spanish executive in the U.S. says: “May I have some water?” Grammatically perfect, but in casual American business settings it risks sounding old-fashioned or overly deferential.
The safety manual problem In technical writing:
“The machine may start automatically” (possibility).
“The operator may start the machine” (permission). Mixing these up in translation could shift liability in a serious incident.
What Global Leaders Should Note
Formality matters: English draws a sharper line between formal and informal usage than many languages. Misjudging tone can signal either rudeness or weakness.
Directness is cultural: What feels clear in one language can sound abrupt or officious in another.
Documentation needs precision: Legal, compliance, and safety documents demand consistent use of can and may. Global companies need shared language protocols to prevent misinterpretation.
Takeaway
Small words carry big weight. In multicultural teams, can and may aren’t just about grammar—they’re about authority, permission, and liability. Building awareness of how these verbs shift across languages helps prevent unnecessary conflict, protects reputations, and ensures global teams stay aligned.
