French Phrase
Tu peux l'utiliser.
Meaning
Literally, “You can use it.” The sentence gives permission or states that the listener has the ability to use a particular object or resource that has already been mentioned.
When to use
Use this informal construction when speaking to a friend, a colleague you know well, or anyone you would address with ‘tu’. It’s common in everyday conversation, instructions, or when offering help.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tupeuxl'utiliser.
Peux (pouvoir)
‘Peux’ is the 2nd‑person singular present of the modal verb ‘pouvoir’, used to express ability or permission.
Elided direct object pronoun ‘l’ ’
‘l’ is the contracted form of ‘le’ or ‘la’ before a vowel or mute ‘h’; it replaces the noun you are referring to.
Infinitive after modal verb
When ‘pouvoir’ (or other modal verbs) is used, it is followed by an infinitive verb (here ‘utiliser’).
🗨In Conversation
Tu peux l'utiliser si tu veux.
You can use it if you want.
Merci, je le ferai tout de suite.
Thanks, I’ll do it right away.
✕Common Mistakes
Tu peux le utiliser.
The direct object pronoun must be elided before a vowel; use ‘l'’ instead of ‘le’.
Tu peux l'utilise.
After ‘pouvoir’, the following verb stays in the infinitive, not conjugated.
Tu peux l'utiliser ?
Adding a question mark changes the meaning; use intonation or ‘est‑ce que’ for a question.
↔Alternatives
Tu peux l'employer.
You can employ it.
Tu as le droit de l'utiliser.
You have the right to use it.
Vous pouvez l'utiliser.
You (formal/plural) can use it.
Cultural Tip
French distinguishes between ‘tu’ (informal) and ‘vous’ (formal or plural). Switching to ‘vous’ changes the tone to more respectful or professional. Also, the elision ‘l'’ is mandatory before a vowel sound; omitting it (e.g., ‘le utiliser’) is considered incorrect.