Making Requests in English: Polite Phrases for Everyday Speaking

Easy phrases for daily requests

• Could you please help me with this?
• Could I borrow your pen for a moment?
• Would you mind opening the window, please?
• May I use your phone for a minute?
• Can you point me to the right room?
• Could you please explain this to me?
• Could you help me with my bag?
• Would you mind waiting a moment?
• May I sit here for a moment?
• Can you turn on the light, please?
• Could you speak more slowly, please?
• Could you write that on the board?

Polite speaking tips

• Begin with please and end with thanks.
• Ask one thing at a time.
• Use a friendly tone.
• Be patient while you speak.
• Speak clearly and slowly at first.
• Use simple words your listener knows.
• Be polite even in busy places.

Common situations

• Could you tell me how to get there?
• Could you repeat that, please?
• Would you mind speaking more slowly?
• Could you write that down?
• May I borrow a pen from you?

Speaking Topics

• Ask for help - 'Could you help me, please?'
• Ask for a favor - 'Would you mind helping me with this?'
• Ask for permission - 'May I use your pen for a moment?'
• Ask for an item - 'Could you lend me your pencil?'
• Ask for service - 'Could you check this for me?'