All Ears English Podcast – Episode 2576

Title: Lindsay’s Language Adventure on the Spanish Steps
Date: March 4, 2026
Hosts: Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan

Episode Overview

In this episode, Lindsay shares a relatable and light-hearted language learning moment from her recent trip to Rome, Italy—specifically, an encounter with a police officer on the iconic Spanish Steps. Lindsay and Michelle use this story as a springboard to dissect subtle but important distinctions in English when telling someone what is or isn’t allowed, focusing on natural, accurate vocabulary and grammar. The discussion offers practical advice to intermediate and advanced English learners about common mistakes (“it’s not possible” vs. “it’s not allowed”) and varying levels of politeness according to context and culture.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Lindsay’s Rome Adventure and Language Encounter

• [02:32] Lindsay recently visited Rome, which she describes as her favorite Italian city for its authentic atmosphere and historical wonders.
  • “You’re just... walking, maybe on your way to work and you turn left and there’s these ancient ruins right there in the middle of the city.” – Lindsay McMahon (02:42)
• [03:28] While resting on the Spanish Steps, Lindsay and her partner were approached by a police officer who said:
  • “It’s not possible.”
    The officer gestured for them to stand up and leave.
• Both noticed that while they understood the cop’s intent, the phrasing was “slightly incorrect” and rooted in a direct translation from Italian, not native English usage.

Language Breakdown: “It’s not possible” vs. More Natural English

• The hosts analyze the phrase:
  • “Actually, it is possible because we were just doing it. We were just sitting there. It is physically possible to sit on the steps.” – Lindsay McMahon (05:21)
• [06:00] Discussion on the distinction between “possible” (ability) and “allowed” (permission/rule).
  • “Is it allowed? There’s a difference.” – Michelle Kaplan (06:00)
  • They connect this to the classic “can I go to the bathroom?” vs. “may I go to the bathroom?” debate in schools.

Correct and Natural Phrases for Prohibitions

• [09:55] Three main structures explored, ranging from direct to formal:
  1. Direct:
     • “You can’t X.”
       • Example: “You can’t sit here.” (09:55)
     • “You can’t use these bags without paying for them.” (10:23)
  2. Formal/Passive:
     • “It’s not permitted to X.”
       • “It’s not permitted to sit here.” (11:04)
  3. Allowed:
     • “You’re not allowed to X.”
       • “You’re not allowed to enter this area without a ticket.” (13:00)
     • “Allowed is a very common word, I think.” – Lindsay McMahon (13:10)

Softening Prohibitions and Cultural Context

• [14:38] Adding politeness:
  • “I’m sorry, but you’re not allowed to X.”
  • “I apologize for the inconvenience, but it isn’t permitted to purchase this at this time.” (16:07)
  • Politeness level can depend on cultural expectations and the speaker’s role.
  • “Some cultures are much more rules based and there’s less of a need for maybe politeness or saving face, whereas other cultures really... saving face is very important.” – Lindsay McMahon (15:02)
• [16:58] “You aren’t able to” is used, but noted as slightly awkward—it’s more about rule-based inability than actual physical impossibility.

Memorable Cultural Observations

• [17:00] Airport security lines are mentioned as good places to observe local politeness norms:
  • “If you go to Boston, Logan, oh man, watch out... They will be jerks to you. Whereas here in Denver, like, people are pretty smiley.” – Lindsay McMahon (17:22)
  • Michelle describes New York airport staff as “screaming,” but shares that her experience in Philadelphia was surprisingly warm.
  • General advice: don’t take it personally if staff are abrupt—it’s not about you.

Quotes & Notable Moments

• “Actually, it is possible because we were just doing it for ten minutes.” – Lindsay McMahon (05:21)
• “Something being possible—it’s like, can it be done? It can.” – Michelle Kaplan (05:55)
• “You can’t sit here”—This is very direct, it’s very blunt. And it’s really good for a person of authority... it could sound rude, but this is a cop. He’s getting things done.” – Michelle Kaplan (09:55)
• “It’s not permitted to use your cell phone here.” – Lindsay McMahon (11:17)
• “Allowed is a very common word, I think.” – Lindsay McMahon (13:10)
• “I apologize for the inconvenience, but it isn’t permitted to purchase this at this time.” – Michelle Kaplan (16:26)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 02:32 – Lindsay describes Rome and the Spanish Steps experience
• 04:03 – The police officer says “It’s not possible”
• 05:10 – Immediate linguistic reactions and the concept of “false friends”
• 06:50 – “Can I” vs. “May I” in schools
• 09:55 – Correct ways to prohibit: “You can’t,” “It’s not permitted,” “You’re not allowed”
• 14:38 – Softening prohibitions: “I’m sorry, but...”
• 15:02 – Cultural reasons for using softer or more direct language
• 16:58 – “You aren’t able to” and when it fits
• 17:22 – Comparing US airport security language and culture
• 19:19 – Example of “Please don’t... ” for softer prohibitions
• 19:43 – Politeness in museum settings vs. airport security
• 21:48 – Key takeaway: Connection can happen even with “imperfect” language

Summary of Practical Advice

• “It’s not possible” is a literal translation that sounds odd in English when talking about rules.
• Use “You can’t...”, “It’s not permitted to...”, or “You’re not allowed to...” instead.
• To sound less harsh, especially if not in authority, add softeners: “I’m sorry, but...”, or “I apologize for the inconvenience, but...”.
• Adjust directness and formality based on the setting, your position, and the local culture.
• Recognize that in many real-life situations, connection is more important than perfect grammar, but fine-tuning your language can improve clarity and relationships.

Closing Thoughts

This episode encourages English learners to notice subtle but impactful translation mistakes and gives actionable alternatives for more natural communication. Lindsay and Michelle blend helpful linguistic theory, practical phrases, real-life anecdotes, and cultural wisdom—a perfect lesson in “connection, not perfection.”

For more on this topic, check out the follow-up episode on the Business English Podcast!