英語の依頼表現｜Can you, Could you, Would you mind の丁寧な使い方

In English, there are many ways to ask someone to do something.

Some forms are more direct, and some are more polite.

Knowing how to make polite requests will help you sound natural and respectful.

1. Can You…? – Simple and Direct

This is the most common way to ask for help. It is clear and not too formal.

Examples:

• Can you help me with my homework?

• Can you open the window, please?

This is fine with friends, classmates, or family.

2. Could You…? – Softer and Polite

Could you…? is more polite than Can you…?.

It sounds softer and less like a command.

Examples:

• Could you pass me the salt, please?

• Could you tell me the time?

This is good in everyday life and also in polite situations.

3. Would You Mind…? – Very Polite

Would you mind…? is very polite.

It is useful when asking for something from a teacher, a stranger, or in formal situations.

Examples:

• Would you mind opening the door?

• Would you mind waiting here for a moment?

Note: After Would you mind…?, the verb usually ends with -ing.

4. Do You Think You Could…? – Extra Polite and Indirect

This is a longer, softer way to ask.

It sounds very kind and formal.

Examples:

• Do you think you could help me carry this box?

• Do you think you could check this document for me?

Cultural Note: Politeness in British English

In British English, being too direct can sometimes sound rude.

That’s why people often add words like please, just, a bit, maybe, or I think.

Examples:

• Could you just explain that again, please?

• Would you mind moving your bag a bit?

These small words make the request sound softer and more polite.

Practice

Choose the best way to complete each request.

1. ______ you open the window, please? (polite everyday)

2. ______ you mind helping me with this? (very polite)

3. ______ you tell me how to get to the station? (softer, polite)

4. ______ you think you could check my homework? (extra polite)

5. ______ you pass me that pen? (direct, casual)

Conclusion

Learning different ways to make requests in English is very important.

Using polite forms like could you… or would you mind… helps you sound respectful and natural.

It also shows cultural understanding, especially in British English, where indirect and softer language is valued.

Possible answers:

1. Could

2. Would

3. Could

4. Do

5. Can