25 Polite English Expressions

✘ When asking for something, don’t say: I want 

✔ Be polite, and say: I’d like (I would like) 
or…
✔ Please can I have…?

Example: I’d like a large cup of tea, please. 
Example: Please can I have some chips with my fish.

✘ When asking someone to do something don’t say: Do that!

✔ Be polite: Could you do that, please?
or...
Would you mind + doing that, please?

Example: Could you lend me your umbrella, please?
Example: Would you mind speaking slower, please?

 

✘ If you want something, don’t say: Give me…

✔ Be polite: Can you give me…., please?

Example: Can you give me a minute, please?

 

✔ Ask permission to do something, by saying:  Would it be OK if…?

Example: Would it be OK it I came to work 10 minutes late tomorrow?

✘ Don’t say: That’s a bad idea

✔ Be polite: I’m not sure that’s a good idea

 

✘ Don’t say: I don’t like it

✔ Be polite: I’m not too fond of it
or...
✔ I don’t really like it, I’m afraid.

Example: I’m not too fond of your mother’s apple pie.
Example: I don’t really like your design, I’m afraid.

Avoid being direct when asking “Why..?”

✘ Don’t say: Why are you here today?

✔ Be polite: How come you’re here today?

Avoid accusing people with ‘you’ statements 

✘ Don’t say: You’re speaking too quietly

✔ Be polite: Sorry, I didn’t quite hear you

 

✘ Don’t say: You don’t understand me

✔ Be polite: Maybe I’m not explaining this very well

 

✘ Don’t say: I disagree

✔ Be polite: I see what you mean, but… 

Example: I see you what you mean, but I think it would be better if we worked separately.

And finally, remember that you should always use these polite English expressions to give a good, friendly impression of yourself and to avoid seeming rude!
 

✔ Please

✔ Thank you 

✔ You’re welcome /No problem 

✔ Excuse me / Sorry 

✔ How are you today?

✔ Have a nice day! 

✔ Bon apetit!

✔ Bless you! 

✔ Nice to meet you 

✔ Nice meeting you