Faith: Hi John! Would you mind helping me with something?
John: Sure! What is it?
Faith: I’m emailing my cat’s doctor, you know, a veterinarian. They messed up my cat’s medication. I want to be polite, but I also want to get my point across. Do you have any tips?
John: I do, Faith! Actually, when you asked if I wouldn’t mind helping you with something, you were using a modal to politely request something! Modals are a great way to turn your question into a polite request! “Could” and “Would” are the more polite forms. “Can” and “will” are still polite, but they are used for requests that are more casual or informal.
Faith: Oh! So, I could say: “Would you be able to refill my cat’s medication?” Instead of using “will?” This email is already sounding better.
John: And one more thing! Be careful of using “please.”
Faith: But I thought “please” is polite?
John: It is! We do not always have to use “please” to make a polite request. Sometimes the use of “please” can come across as too strong or demanding. In email, we do not always notice the tone of what is written.
Faith: So, it’s still best to ask, “Would you be able to…” instead of “Would you please...”
John: Yes! That last question may come across as too strong.
Faith: Great! Thanks for tips, John! I know I can always count on you because you’re such a grammar nerd. In the best way.
John: Sad, but true… And that’s Everyday Grammar TV.