How to Make Polite Requests in English

This article covers the following areas –

• Polite Requests in Formal Settings
• Polite Requests in Informal Settings
• Polite Requests in Semi-Formal Settings
• Using Voice Tone to Make Requests Politer
• Using Body Language to Make Requests Politer
• Sample Conversation
• Final Words
• Let’s Practice Now – Quiz
• Frequently Asked Questions

If you observe the ways native English speakers speak to someone, you will find uses of “please,” “sorry,” “excuse me,” “thanks,” and the like. These words are used by people who love being polite. Politeness is a virtue. People who are polite and are of good manners are loved by all. Their requests are earnestly considered and accepted by the people surrounding them.  

Making requests means you are asking something from someone or asking someone to do something for you. Whether your request will be granted or not depends on the person you are requesting. Thus you need to request convincingly so that the person happily accepts your request. But how?

Politeness in the choice of words and expressions is the key to making requests. Using the word “please” as well as some modal verbs like “could” and “would” can have a polite effect on the request. Remember! Your tone and body language also matter when you make any request to someone.   

However, the way you make requests may vary depending on the situation: formal, informal, and semi-formal.

Note: You may use formal expressions in semi-formal settings.

The table shows different expressions of making requests in different contexts: formal, informal, and semi-formal. Here you can also find 50 Examples of Polite Requests in English. To get to know more about the expressions, keep reading the post till the end.

Polite Requests in Formal Settings

Every day we deal with different people: family members, friends, colleagues, teachers, and students for different purposes. We meet known and unknown people in formal and informal settings and even semi-formal settings.

No matter in which situation we are, we frequently need help from others, and to have that, we make requests. In this part, I will be discussing the ways you can make polite requests in formal settings.

Would You Please…?”

Using the expression “Would you please…” is a very common expression to make requests. This expression is considered very polite. Let’s look at some example sentences.

Though the above examples seem like questions, as they have a question mark (?) at the end, they are polite requests. Apparently, they look like questions, but the person you are requesting to will understand that you are actually requesting him or her to give something to you or do something for you.

Remember! When you use modal auxiliary verbs like “would” or “could,” you should use the present or base form of the verb.      

Would You Mind…?

“Would You Mind” is a very polite way of making requests in formal contexts. One very important thing to mention here is that when you use “would you mind” to make requests, the verb form should be a present participle (base+ing). The following examples will make the idea clearer.    

Do You Mind…?

You can replace the expression “Would You Mind” with “Do You Mind.” Both can serve the same purpose of making requests in formal contexts. When you use “Do you mind” to make requests, you also use the verb’s present participle form (base+ing). The following examples would make the idea clearer.

Do You Think You Could…?

You can also make requests by starting with “Do You Think You Could…” The following examples will make the idea clearer.

Remember! In formal settings, you don’t ask for anything directly. If you ask for anything directly, it may appear to be orders rather than requests.

In addition to the above expressions, there are plenty of polite expressions to make requests. Let’s have a look at some examples.

I was wondering if it would be possible for you to…

Is there any chance that you could…?

Would it be alright if you…?

Polite Requests in Informal Settings

We can use “Can’ or “Will” to make requests in informal situations. These two modal verbs sound informal compared to “would” and “could.” 

When you request something from people who are known and close to you, you can use can or will. To ask something from family members, colleagues, and friends, you can use “can” and “will.”

Let’s look at the following examples.

Like all the other requests, these are also in question pattern. Yet, they are requests.

Polite Requests in Semi-Formal Settings

There is very little difference between semi-formal and formal settings. In semi-formal settings, we can also use the same expressions in formal settings. However, in semi-formal settings, we can use the modals “would” and “could.’

When we make requests to older family members, senior colleagues, teachers, and the like, we should use semi-formal expressions.

Using “Would” to Make Polite Requests in Semi-Formal Settings

“Would” is very commonly used to make polite requests in semi-formal settings. Let’s look at some example sentences.

Using “Could” to Make Polite Requests in Semi-Formal Settings

Like “Would,” “Could” is also very commonly used to make polite requests when the context is semi-formal. Let’s look at the following examples.

Using Voice Tone to Make Requests Politer

Voice tone is crucial in making requests sound polite. Even with polite words, a rude tone can make a request seem like a command. Using a gentle and respectful tone ensures the request is perceived as courteous and considerate.

When speaking, the tone of your voice plays a significant role in how your message is received. Polite words paired with a polite tone make requests more effective and pleasant. A kind tone can make others more willing to help or respond positively.

If you request something and your tone is harsh or demanding, the listener might feel pressured or disrespected. This can lead to misunderstandings or resistance. Always aim for a soft, friendly, and respectful tone to ensure your request does not come across as a command.

Practicing good tone control is essential. Start by paying attention to how your voice sounds. Record yourself and listen to the playback. Adjust your tone to sound warmer and more sincere. Smile when speaking; it naturally softens your tone and makes you sound friendlier.

Remember, a polite request is not just about the words used but how they are delivered. Consistently using a pleasant tone will improve your communication skills and help build better relationships with others.

Using Body Language to Make Requests Politer

Body language, including gestures and postures, is key to polite communication. Eye contact, positive posture, polite hand movements, and sympathetic facial expressions can enhance the politeness of a request. Giving full attention to the person also helps convey respect and sincerity.

Eye contact is essential when making requests. It shows that you value the person and are sincere in your request. Avoiding eye contact can make you seem disinterested or untrustworthy. Always look the person in the eye to establish a connection and convey importance.

Maintain a positive posture. Stand or sit up straight, and avoid slouching or crossing your arms. A positive posture makes you appear confident and respectful. It helps convince the person that your request is genuine and important.

Use polite hand movements. Gesturing can emphasize your words, but don’t overdo it. Excessive or aggressive gestures can be distracting or seem threatening. Keep your movements smooth and natural to enhance your message without overwhelming the listener.

Keep facial expressions sympathetic. A friendly smile or a concerned look can make your request more appealing. If you show generosity and kindness, people are more likely to respond positively. Your facial expressions should match your words to convey sincerity.

Give full attention to the person you are making a request to. Listen actively and respond appropriately. Showing that you are attentive and considerate can make the person more willing to fulfill your request. It demonstrates respect and genuine interest in their response.

Sample Conversation

Formal Situation

Situation: At a business conference, Helen approaches the conference organizer, Mr. Thompson, to request additional materials.

Helen: Excuse me, Mr. Thompson, might I trouble you for some additional handouts for Session B? I believe some of my colleagues missed out.

Mr. Thompson: Of course, Helen. I’ll have someone bring them over to your table. Would that be alright?

Helen: That would be most appreciated. Thank you for your assistance.

Mr. Thompson: You’re welcome, Helen. Please let me know if there’s anything else you require.

Informal Situation

Situation: Two friends, Jake and Mia, are at a park. Mia wants Jake to take a picture of her.

Mia: Hey Jake, would you mind snapping a pic of me by the fountain? The lighting’s perfect!

Jake: Sure thing, Mia. Just stand over there and give me your best pose.

Mia: Thanks, buddy! Oh, and could you take a few so I can choose the best one?

Jake: No problem! Just let me know when you’re ready.

Final Words

Whenever you make a request, maintain an attitude that can help you accept your request. Your request should be genuine and sincere. The expressions and tips I have shared here to make polite requests properly can greatly help you to master the skill of making requests.

I hope this will help you. Thanks for reading.

Happy learning.

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Frequently Asked Questions