6 Ways To Make Polite Requests in English

Have you noticed how native English speakers tend to soften their words with phrases such as “Sorry.…” or “Would you mind.…?” when making a request?

If you’d like to sound more polite and natural when asking for something in English, I hope the tips below will be helpful.

1. “I was wondering if/whether you could

This is one of my favourite ways to make a polite request. It’s respectful and widely used by native speakers.

Example 1: I was wondering if you could send me the updated schedule before Friday.

Example 2: I was wondering whether you could tell me how to get to the shopping mall.

2. “Would you mind….?”

Here’s another polite and considerate way to make a request.

Example: Would you mind passing me that book?

3. You wouldn’t mind…, would you?”

This phrase might sound a little over the top to some, but it’s one I personally enjoy using. It adds a friendly, slightly playful tone to a request.

Example: You wouldn’t mind doing me a favour, would you?

4. “You couldn’t..., (by any chance),…. could you?”

Another delightfully over-the-top phrase, but I love it! It’s polite, and perfect for softening a request when you’re asking for a favour.

Example: You couldn’t help me carry this box, (by any chance), could you?

5. Could....?

This is another effective and slightly more direct way to make a polite request. The modal verb ‘could’ softens the tone, making it sound respectful rather than demanding.

Example: Could you please close the door on your way out?

6. “Can you….?”

This phrase works well for everyday requests, especially with people you know well, such as friends, colleagues, or family members. It’s casual, friendly, and appropriate in informal settings.

Example: “Can you ask Tom to give me a call when he gets back? "

Please note, 'could' is more formal than 'can'.

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