Writing a polite request with could – English 2AC
Practise polite requests with Could you…? and requests for permission with Could I…?
1. Ask someone to act
Use Could you + base verb: «Could you open the window, please?» The verb after could has no to and no s. This is a polite request, not necessarily a question about past ability.
2. Ask for permission
Use Could I when you want permission for your own action: «Could I use this dictionary, please?» The choice of subject changes who will act.
3. Respond naturally
Accept with «Of course» or «Sure». If you cannot help, give a polite reply such as «Sorry, I’m using it now». Please helps, but tone and context also matter.
Summary diagram
Worked example
A: Could you repeat the question, please?
B: Of course.
A: Could I write the answer on the board?
B: Yes, go ahead.
The first request asks the teacher to act; the second asks permission for the speaker.
6 exercises with answers
Try the exercise before opening the answer.
Exercise 1
Correct: Could you to help me?
Show answer
Could you help me?
Exercise 2
Ask someone to close a door politely.
Show answer
Could you close the door, please?
Exercise 3
Ask permission to sit here.
Show answer
Could I sit here, please?
Exercise 4
Choose: Could you passes/pass the ruler?
Show answer
pass: the base verb follows could.
Exercise 5
Give a polite acceptance.
Show answer
Of course. / Sure.
Exercise 6
Does could always refer to the past?
Show answer
No. In these questions it makes a present request polite.