Polite Departure Phrases: 'May I Take Your Leave' vs 'May I Take Leave of You'

When it comes to asking for permission to depart in a polite manner, both the phrases 'may I take your leave' and 'may I take leave of you' are grammatically correct. However, they carry slightly different connotations and are used in varying contexts. This article will explore the nuances of these phrases and help you choose the most appropriate one for your situation.

Understanding the Grammar and Usage

Both phrases share the same basic grammatical structure, consisting of a modal verb ('may') followed by a phrase meaning 'to ask for permission.' However, their usage and implications differ slightly.

May I Take Your Leave?

This phrase is a polite way of asking for permission to leave someone's presence. It often implies respect for the other person's company and is commonly used in modern English.

Example: 'Excuse me, may I take your leave now?'

May I Take Leave of You?

This phrase is more formal and somewhat archaic, indicating a request for permission to depart but sounding more literary or old-fashioned. It is also used to express a polite exit, similar to 'may I take your leave,' but in a slightly more formal or traditional context.

Example: 'Ladies and gentlemen, may I take leave of you now that my speech is concluded.'

When to Use Each Phrase

The choice between these two phrases depends on the formality of the situation and the context. For everyday conversation, 'may I take your leave' is generally preferred as it sounds more natural and modern. It carries a polite and respectful tone without sounding too formal.

Example in Everyday Conversation

During a casual meeting, you might say:

Excuse me, may I take your leave? I need to catch my flight.

This phrase is not only grammatically correct but also fitting for casual settings, whether in personal or professional contexts. It is a courteous way to signal your intention to depart.

Formal or Traditional Contexts

In more formal or traditional settings, 'may I take leave of you' can be appropriate. This phrase is more often found in historical fiction, classic literature, or formal speeches.

Example of a Historical Context

In an old-fashioned ballroom scene from a novel:

With a bow and a smile, he said, 'May I take leave of you, my lady?'

This phrase enhances the sense of tradition and formality in the narrative.

When to Take Your Leave or My Leave of You?

'Take your leave' is a phrasal verb that means to depart or leave. It is often used in the context of someone else saying goodbye to you:

When the other is speaking to me and I get the impression that he has said whatever he had to say as a matter of courtesy, I say, 'May I take your leave!'

This phrase suggests that it is now appropriate or expected that you depart. It is a polite way to signal the end of a conversation or interaction.

Examples

During a meeting: 'It's time for me to take my leave of you people.' At the end of a meeting: 'He took his leave of his hostess.' Leaving the office: 'She took leave of her colleagues with a wave.' Departing from a ceremony: 'I took leave of the hostess at an early hour.' At a farewell party: 'One by one, the guests took their leave.'

Conclusion

Both 'may I take your leave' and 'may I take leave of you' are grammatically correct, but the choice between them depends on the formality and context of the situation. 'May I take your leave' is a more common and versatile phrase for modern usage, while 'may I take leave of you' is better suited for formal or historical contexts. Understanding the nuances of these phrases will help you choose the most appropriate way to politely exit a conversation or interaction.