Making requests politely and effectively is an essential skill in English communication. Here are 20 words and phrases you can use to make requests, each with a brief meaning and an example sentence to help you understand their usage.
Words and Phrases to Use for Making Requests
1. Could you
Meaning: Can you please
Example: Could you pass the salt, please?
2. Would you mind
Meaning: Are you okay with
Example: Would you mind closing the window?
3. Can you
Meaning: Is it possible
Example: Can you help me with this task?
4. May I
Meaning: Is it allowed
Example: May I borrow your pen?
5. Do you think you could
Meaning: Is it possible for you
Example: Do you think you could lend me a hand?
6. Would it be possible
Meaning: Is it feasible
Example: Would it be possible to meet tomorrow?
7. I was wondering if
Meaning: I’m curious if
Example: I was wondering if you could assist me.
8. Could I
Meaning: Is it okay if
Example: Could I use your phone for a moment?
9. Would you be able to
Meaning: Can you manage
Example: Would you be able to pick me up later?
10. I’d appreciate it if
Meaning: I would value it
Example: I’d appreciate it if you could call me back.
11. Is there any chance
Meaning: Is it possible
Example: Is there any chance you could finish this today?
12. Can I ask you to
Meaning: Is it okay to request
Example: Can I ask you to move your car?
13. Would you be so kind as to
Meaning: Can you kindly
Example: Would you be so kind as to help me?
14. Might you
Meaning: Is it possible you
Example: Might you be able to lend me a pen?
15. I would be grateful if
Meaning: I would appreciate
Example: I would be grateful if you could send the report.
16. Can you please
Meaning: Kindly do
Example: Can you please send me the details?
17. Would you consider
Meaning: Would you think about
Example: Would you consider giving me some advice?
18. I hope you don’t mind
Meaning: I hope it’s okay
Example: I hope you don’t mind if I ask a favor.
19. Is it okay if
Meaning: Is it acceptable
Example: Is it okay if I leave early today?
20. Would it trouble you to
Meaning: Is it inconvenient
Example: Would it trouble you to check this document?
