Is it ok / Would it be ok?

Hi ,

May I know the usage difference of below

is it ok?

Would it be ok?

Thanks a ton

Hi. Mostly it is a matter of tense. Is it OK? can be asked of something already done, where as the other one is looking forward to the future, perhaps seeking agreement for a plan of action.

"is it ok?" - This is more direct, it almost assumes that the other person will say "Yes." e.g.
A: "Is it OK if I borrow your bike?"

"Would it be OK?" - This is in the conditional and is therefore less direct; it is more as a tentative enquiry, you're allowing the other person to say "Yes." or "No." e.g.
A: "Would it be OK if I borrow your bike?"
B: "I'm sorry, but I will be using it this afternoon."

Oh I see PaulQ thinks they can both be forward looking.

Hmm, well I think he is right, reading his explanation. Sorry if my comment seems confusing. Although it can certainly be used for events aleady past, as I said.