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?'
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