Knowing how to make a polite request is important. What about responding to them politely as well? We've got a handy list for you.
There are at least three types of responses you can give when you’re responding to requests.
It's not just important to be polite when making a request but it's also good to be polite when responding because it avoids miscommunication.
You can say:
- Yes
- No
- I don’t know
- Not sure
Instead of yes, you can say:
- Yes I can/Yes, sure thing.
- Yes of course!/Of course I will.
- Yes I can. It’s this way.
- Sure. It’s 10am.
- Sure thing!
- I can certainly do that for you.
- Yes here you go!/Sure, here you go.
- OK I will.
- Yes I can.
- Yes definitely!
Instead of no, you can say:
- Of course not!
- I’m afraid I still can’t.
Instead of maybe, you can say:
- I’m afraid I don’t know.
- I’m not sure.
Practise using the following questions and answers to make and respond to polite requests:
A: Would you mind attending to the clients for me?
B: I can certainly do that for you.
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A: Could you tell me what’s the time?
B: Sure. It’s 10am.
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A: Could you please tell me where the bathroom is?
B: Yes I can. It’s this way.
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A: Would you play the song for us at the party tonight?
B: No sorry I can’t. I’m not in charge of the music.
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A: Will you please call me when the party starts?
B: OK I will.
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A: Would you please reserve a seat for me?
B: Of course I will.
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A: Could you please tell me what’s in this dish?
B: I’m afraid I don’t know.
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A: Can you please give me that?
B: Yes here you go!
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A: Can you see the video now?
B: I’m afraid I still can’t.
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A: Will you come to the gathering later?
B: I’m not sure.
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