Modal verbs help us express different meanings such as ability, possibility, permission, and requests. In this lesson, we will focus on how to use modal verbs to make polite requests in English.
What Are Modal Verbs for Requests?
In English, we commonly use modal verbs like “can,” “could,” “would,” and “may” to make requests more polite. The way we use these modal verbs affects how formal or informal our requests sound.
Common Modal Verbs for Requests
| Modal Verb | Formality Level | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Can | Informal | Can you help me? |
| Could | More polite | Could you help me? |
| Would | Formal/Polite | Would you help me? |
| May | Very formal | May I ask for your help? |
| Will | Direct | Will you help me? |
| Might | Very polite | Might I ask for your assistance? |
How to Use Modal Verbs for Requests
Using “Can”
Can you open the window?
“Can” is the most informal modal verb for making requests. We use it in casual situations with friends, family, or close colleagues.
More examples:
- Can you pass me the salt?
- Can you tell me the time?
- Can you call me later?
Using “Could”
Could you open the window?
“Could” is more polite than “can.” It’s appropriate for most everyday situations and when speaking to people you don’t know well.
More examples:
- Could you help me with this bag?
- Could you explain that again?
- Could you send me the document by email?
Using “Would”
Would you mind opening the window?
“Would” is more formal and polite. We often use it with “mind” to make very polite requests.
More examples:
- Would you be able to help me?
- Would you mind waiting a moment?
- Would it be possible to reschedule our meeting?
Using “May”
May I borrow your pen?
“May” is very formal and is often used when asking for permission rather than making a request of someone else.
More examples:
- May I ask you a question?
- May I use your phone?
- May we come in?
Structure of Modal Verb Requests
The basic structure for requests using modal verbs is:
Modal verb + subject + main verb + rest of sentence + ?
Examples:
- Could you pass me that book?
- Would you mind closing the door?
Responding to Requests
Accepting Requests
When you want to agree to a request, you can use expressions like:
- Yes, of course.
- Sure, no problem.
- I’d be happy to.
- Certainly.
Declining Requests
When you need to refuse a request, try to be polite:
- I’m sorry, but I can’t right now.
- I’m afraid that’s not possible.
- I wish I could, but I’m busy at the moment.
- Unfortunately, I’m unable to help with that.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using imperatives instead of modal verbs: Direct commands can sound rude in English. Use modal verbs to make polite requests.
- Instead of: Open the window!
- Say: Could you open the window, please?
- Forgetting to use “please”: Adding “please” makes requests even more polite.
- Could you help me, please?
- Using the wrong intonation: Requests should have rising intonation at the end.
Real-Life Dialogues
Dialogue 1: At a Restaurant
Customer: Excuse me, could I have the menu, please?
Waiter: Of course, here you are.
Customer: Thank you. Could you recommend a house specialty?
Waiter: I’d be happy to. Our grilled salmon is very popular.
Customer: That sounds delicious. May I order that, please?
Waiter: Certainly. Would you like any side dishes with it?
Customer: Yes, could I have a side salad, please?
Waiter: Of course. Your meal will be ready shortly.
Dialogue 2: At the Office
Employee: Excuse me, would it be possible to speak with you for a moment?
Manager: Yes, of course. What can I help you with?
Employee: Could we discuss the project timeline? I’m concerned about the deadline.
Manager: Certainly. Would 3 PM work for you?
Employee: That would be perfect. Could you also bring the project files?
Manager: No problem. I’ll see you at 3.
Summary
Modal verbs make our requests sound more polite in English. Remember:
- Use “can” for informal requests
- Use “could” for more polite requests
- Use “would” for formal, very polite requests
- Use “may” mostly for asking permission
The level of politeness should match the situation and your relationship with the person you’re speaking to.