dürfen
Translation
may, be allowed to
Examples
Darf ich hier parken?
May I park here?
Er darf heute nicht fernsehen.
He is not allowed to watch TV today.
Grammar Patterns
((to do sth.)) to be allowed to do sth. May I open the window?
Similar Words
Synonyms: können (can), mögen (may); Antonyms: müssen (must), sollen (should)
Etymology
From Old High German 'durfan' (to need), which shifted meaning to 'be permitted'.
Memory Tips
Think of asking for permission. 'Darf ich?' is the key phrase for 'May I?'.