be my guest

/ˌbiː maɪ ˈɡest/
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A direct way to let someone do something, warmly or with reluctant irony.

Examples

  • “Can I open the window?” “Be my guest.”
  • If you want the last slice, be my guest.
  • “May I use your phone?” “Be my guest.”
  • If you think you can fix it faster, be my guest.
  • He said “be my guest,” but his cold tone showed that he was annoyed.

Similar words

feel free
go ahead
help yourself
by all means

Meanings

Giving permission

permission
informal
Said to give someone permission to do or use something, either with a warm welcome or, in a colder tone, with reluctance or irony.

Examples

  • “May I use your phone?” “Be my guest.”
  • If you want the last slice, be my guest.
  • “Can I open the window?” “Be my guest.”
  • You can look through the books. Be my guest.
  • If you think you can fix it faster, be my guest.
  • He said “be my guest,” but his cold tone showed that he was annoyed.

Similar words

Etymology

From the idea that a guest is welcome to accept a host’s food, space, or hospitality. The expression extends that welcome into general permission.

FAQ

What does be my guest mean?

It means that someone has permission to do or use something.

Is be my guest polite?

Usually yes. It often sounds welcoming and generous.

Can be my guest sound sarcastic?

Yes. A cold or challenging tone can suggest reluctant permission rather than a warm invitation.

When do people say be my guest?

They say it after someone asks permission or says they want to do something.

Is be my guest the same as help yourself?

They overlap, but help yourself usually invites someone to take or use something that is available.

Does be my guest always refer to a visitor?

No. In this expression, guest is part of a general way to grant permission.

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