Key language

The first and simplest way to soften your requests and questions is to use modal verbs. You can use them in formal and informal situations, in meetings and in small talk.

  • Could you repeat the numer again, please?
  • Would you mind showing the numbers again?
  • Could we talk about the prices now?”

Only for friends and dear colleagues

You may sometimes hear that native speakers use „will you?” as a way to sound more polite, like in “Pass me the pen, will you?” It sounds friendly and relaxed, but it is still an order, not a real question. Use it carefully when:

  • you talk to a close colleague
  • the request is small
  • the situation is informal
  • Don’t use “will you?” in formal contexts.
  • With clients use the modal verbs above “could”, “would you mind”

Look at some examples with “will you”. See how they work in casual conversations. They are all softened orders.

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  • Close the door, will you?
  • Hold this for a second, will you?
  • Turn the music down a bit, will you?

when you have a small problem

The word “just” inserted in your question can make your question sounds smaller and less demanding. They mean : “I only need a moment”. “I only want to check one thing”.

It is safe in formal situations, with clients, the board and senior people. You can use it meetings or when asking a small favour. Notice that “just” comes before the verb.

In meetings:

  • you want to join the conversation
  • you want to add one point
  • you want to stop or slow down the discussion
  • Can I just interrupt / come in here?
  • Can I just point out that…?
  • Could we just stop here?

Asking a small favour:

  • you need a detail or a number
  • you want to hear something again
  • you want to go back to a point
  • Could you just tell me what the budget is?
  • Could you just remind us…?
  • Could we just look at this again?
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