Comment puis-je vous aider ?
How may I assist you?
Language note: Notice the inversion in the polite form.
Culture note: Commonly used by service staff to offer assistance.
Context: The host wants to know how they can assist you.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Comment
[koh-mahn]
How
Used to ask about the manner or way something is done.
Comment puis-je vous aider ?
How can I help you?
puis
[pwee]
Then
Used to introduce a statement or question.
Puis-je avoir un verre d'eau?
Can I have a glass of water?
-je
[zhuh]
I
Refers to oneself as the speaker.
Puis-je venir ?
Can I come?
vous
[voo]
You
Refers to the person being spoken to.
Puis-je vous aider?
Can I help you?
aider
[eh-day]
Help
To assist someone with something.
Puis-je vous aider ?
Can I help you?
Phrase Parts
Comment
Puis-je
Vous aider ?
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