How to Make an Order Sound More Polite

Instead of using an imperative, you can use an introductory phrase to make an order sound more polite. Here are some common ways of rephrasing an order.

Would you mind…?

This is the most polite form. Note that would you mind…? is followed by a noun or an –ing form.

• Would you mind doing the dishes?
• Would you mind waiting for an hour?
• Would you mind helping me with the housework? (= Please help me with the housework.)
• Would you mind moving a bit? (= Please move a bit.)
• Would you mind posting this letter for me?

I was hoping…

• I was hoping you could lend me ten dollars.
• I was hoping you could spare me a few minutes.
• I was hoping you could help me with the homework.

Do you think you could … (+ infinitive without to)

• Do you think you could help me with the housework?
• Do you think you could type these letters for me?
• Do you think you could do the shopping?
• Do you think you could cook the dinner?
• Do you think you could fetch the kids from school?

I’d like you to…

This phrase is used to make a more direct request. It is more like an order than a request.

• I’d like you to clean these windows for me.
• I’d like you to type these letters for me.
• I’d like you to help me with the housework.