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French Phrase

Je peux avoir une boîte pour emporter ?

/ʒə pø a.vwaʁ yn bwat puʁ ɑ̃.pɔʁ.te/
Meaning"Can I have a box to go?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a polite way to ask for a container to take your leftovers home from a restaurant. It uses the verb 'pouvoir' (can) followed by 'avoir' (to have) and the specific expression 'pour emporter' (to take away).

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When to use

Use this at the end of a meal in a restaurant when you cannot finish your plate. It is appropriate for both casual and mid-range dining establishments.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Jepeuxavoirune boîtepour emporter

1

Pouvoir (peux)

The verb 'pouvoir' means 'to be able to' or 'can'. 'Je peux' is the standard way to start a request.

2

Pour emporter

This is the standard prepositional phrase used for food items intended to be consumed elsewhere.

🗨In Conversation

A

Je n'ai plus faim. Je peux avoir une boîte pour emporter ?

I'm not hungry anymore. Can I have a box to go?

Certainement, je vous en apporte une.

Certainly, I will bring you one.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Je peux avoir un chien sac ?

    Do not translate 'doggy bag' literally; it makes no sense in French.

  • Je peux avoir une boîte pour prendre ?

    Use 'emporter' specifically for taking food away from a location.

↔Alternatives

  • Est-ce que je pourrais avoir un doggy bag ?

    Could I have a doggy bag?

  • Je voudrais emporter le reste, s'il vous plaît.

    I would like to take the rest to go, please.

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Cultural Tip

In France, asking for leftovers was once rare, but new environmental laws now require restaurants to provide containers to reduce food waste. While the English term 'doggy bag' is becoming popular in cities, using 'une boîte' is always clear and polite.