Polite Requests

• English
• Secundair onderwijs

Polite Requests

Which is the most formal way to make a request?

a) Can I borrow your pen?

b) Would you mind if I borrowed your pen?
c) I was wondering if you could lend me your pen.
d) Is it OK if I borrow your pen?

c) I was wondering if you could lend me your pen.

Which phrase is used to politely decline a request?

a) Sure, no problem.
b) Sorry, but I need it myself right now.
c) Of course!
d) Go ahead.

b) Sorry, but I need it myself right now.

Fill in the blanks

______ you mind if I open the window?

 Would you mind if I open the window?

Fill in the blanks

 I was ______ if you could help me with my homework.

 I was wondering if you could help me with my homework.

Rewrite using a more formal structure:

Can I use your laptop?

I was wondering if you could let me use your laptop.

Rewrite using a more formal structure:

Is it OK if I borrow your book?

Would you mind if I borrowed your book?

Rewrite using a more formal structure:

Is it OK if I open the window?

Would you mind if I opened the window?

Rewrite using a more formal structure:

Can you give me a ride home?

 Would it be possible for you to give me a ride home?