Modal Verbs of Request

Modal Verbs of Request

Hello, English learners. Welcome to a new lesson. Today, we will talk about modal verbs of request.

Modal verbs are auxiliary (helping) verbs that express possibility, advice, necessity, permission, obligation, ability, etc. Modal verbs of request help convey politeness and formality. The most common modal verbs we can use for requests are can, will, could, would and may.

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Can

The modal verb “can” is used to make requests in informal or neutral situations. It conveys a sense of friendliness and approachability without being overly formal. What you do is ask if someone is able to do something. This makes the request sound polite but casual. It is less formal than “could” or “may,” so it is perfect for conversations with friends or colleagues.

• Can you pass me the salt? (A simple and friendly request at the dinner table.)
• Can you help me carry these bags? (An informal request for assistance.)
• Can I borrow your book for a week? (A polite way of asking for permission to use something.)
• Can we meet up tomorrow to discuss the project? (Proposing a meeting in a casual way.)
• Can you explain that concept again? (Asking for clarification) Modal verbs of request

Will

Using “will” to make requests is direct and polite, so we can use it in informal or friendly situations. “Will” asks someone to do something in a straightforward manner, implying that you expect a positive response. Your tone can remain polite, especially if you add words like “please.” It is suitable for situations where the relationship is casual or the task is simple.

• Will you help me move this table? (A polite but confident request for assistance.)
• Will you join us for a walk later? (Inviting someone in an easygoing manner.)
• Will you please send me the documents by noon? (A polite way to ask for action with a specific deadline.)
• Will you lend me your pen for a moment? (Requesting an item politely but directly.) Modal verbs of request
• Will you explain this part of the lesson again? (Seeking clarification in an approachable manner.)
• Will you be able to pick me up after the meeting? (Combining “will” with a slight focus on ability.)

Could

Using “could” is a polite and formal way to ask for assistance, permission or action. It is often more courteous than “can“, so it is suitable for both informal and formal situations. “Could” softens the request, making it feel less direct and more respectful. You can add “please” to enhance the politeness of your request. “Could” is always followed by the subject (e.g., you, he, we) and the base form of the main verb.

• Could you help me with this report? (Polite request for assistance, often used in workplaces or academic settings.)
• Could you please open the window? (A courteous way to ask someone to perform a small task.)
• Could I borrow your phone for a minute? (Polite way to ask for permission to use something.)
• Could you pass me the menu? (Ideal for casual yet polite interactions, like in a restaurant.) Modal verbs of request
• Could we reschedule the meeting for next week? (Making a polite suggestion or request to change plans.)
• Could you explain that concept once more? (Asking for clarification.)

Would

“Would” adds a tone of formality and consideration, making it suitable for various contexts, such as professional or social situations. It is commonly followed by the subject and the infinitive. You will make it even more courteous if you add “please”. Phrases like “Would you mind…” or “Would it be possible…” make requests even softer and more polite.

• Would you mind helping me with this task? (Polite and respectful request for assistance.)
• Would you please pass me the water? (A courteous way to ask for something during a meal.)
• Would it be possible to reschedule our meeting? (A formal way to request a change in plans.)
• Would you like to join us for dinner? (Offering an invitation politely.)
• Would you kindly explain the process again? (Requesting clarification in a very polite manner.)
• Would you mind if I borrowed your book? (A softer way of asking for permission.) Modal verbs of request

May

Using “may” for requests is less common in everyday informal speech but highly appropriate in professional or academic contexts. “May” adds a layer of respect and courtesy to your request, signaling deference to the listener. It is suitable for formal environments or when addressing someone with authority, such as a teacher, employer, or stranger. “May” is typically used at the beginning of the sentence, followed by the subject and the base form of the verb.

• May I borrow your pen for a moment? (Asking for permission politely.)
• May we enter the conference room now? (Asking for permission to access a specific space.)
• May I take a day off next week? (A formal request to a manager or supervisor.)
• May I have your attention for a few minutes? (A polite way to ask a group to focus on you.) Modal verbs of request
• May I ask you a question about the project? (A courteous introduction to a query.)

Modal verbs of request

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