Untitled Lesson

Making, Accepting and Refusing Requests

Requests use could, would, can, and will

We use Could and Would as polite ways of telling or asking someone to do something.

Using Can and Will is less formal and are also used to make polite requests, they are just not as soft as Could or Would.

Making Requests

Using "Could" and "Would"

• Could you let them know I called?

• Would you carry this for me, please?

• Could I have some ice with my drink?

  
  

These phrases are polite ways to ask someone for help.

Making Requests

Using "Can" and "Will"

These words are less formal but still acceptable:

• • Can you pass the ketchup?

  • Will you carry this for me?

  • Can I get a size 7 in this shoe, please?

​While these are still polite, they are not as soft as "could" and "would."

Accepting Requests

Using "Could" and "Would"

• Sure, I could do that.

• Of course, I would be happy to.

• Yes, I would be delighted to.

• Yeah, no problem!

​Once you've received a polite request, you can accept by aknowledging and confirming or reassuring the request.

Accepting Requests

Using "Can" and "Will"

• Sure, I can do that.

• Yes, I will.

• Definitely, I'll do it.

​Once you've received a polite request, you can accept by aknowledging and confirming or reassuring the request.

Refusing Requests

Using "Could" and "Would"

• Sorry, I have plans already, I wouldn't be able to tonight.

• Sorry, I couldn't tell you where that is, I dont live here.

​Once you've received a polite request, you can refuse politely by apologising, provide a reason and express an inability.

Refusing Requests

Using "Can't" and "Won't"

• So Sorry, I can't carry anything else, my hands are full.

• Sorry, I lost track of time, I won't be ready until later.

​Once you've received a polite request, you can refuse politely by apologising, provide a reason and/or express an inability to .