Introduction: The Politeness Of “Please”
Politeness is an essential element in communication, especially when making a request. In the English language, one word stands out as the epitome of politeness – “please.” It has long been ingrained in our social culture as the most polite way to ask someone for something.
The mere use of “please” conveys respect, humility, and consideration towards the other person. Whether it’s asking for a favor or seeking assistance, “please” is the go-to word for a courteous request.
The Difference Between “Would You Kindly” And “Could You Kindly”
While “please” is universally accepted as the politest word to use in a request, variations of this phrase exist. “Would you kindly” and “could you kindly” are two popular alternatives that people often employ.
These phrases, however, have a slightly different tone compared to the straightforward “please.”
The phrase “could you kindly” is typically used to make a request more polite without sounding too demanding. It is almost interchangeable with “please could you,” with the latter being more commonly used by native English speakers.
On the other hand, “would you kindly” adds a touch of formality and respect to the request, but it may come off as slightly more haranguing in tone.
The Interchangeability Of “Could You Kindly” And “Please Could You”
Both “could you kindly” and “please could you” serve the same purpose – making a request more polite. Native English speakers often use them interchangeably, with personal preference being the primary decider.
It’s worth noting that some individuals find the phrase “could you kindly” jarring and tend to avoid using it altogether. In contrast, others have no qualms about its usage.
Popular Usage: “Could You Please” Among Native Speakers
Among the various variations, “could you please” remains the most popular among native English speakers. Its simplicity, clarity, and inherent politeness make it a preferred choice in everyday conversation.
Whether you’re asking a friend for a favor or seeking assistance from a colleague, starting your request with “could you please” is widely accepted as courteous and respectful.
Controversy: Jarring Effect Of “Could You Kindly” And Avoidance Of Its Use
Despite its widespread usage, some people find the phrase “could you kindly” jarring. They perceive it as too polite or old-fashioned and opt for other variations instead.
The avoidance of its use is particularly evident among individuals who prefer a more straightforward, less formal approach to communication.
Formality And Familiarity: “Please” Vs “Kindly”
The use of “please” and “kindly” in requests subliminally conveys different levels of formality and familiarity. “Please” is the more formal option, suitable for various situations and individuals, including strangers or higher-ranking officials.
Conversely, “kindly” carries a more familiar tone, making it appropriate for requests directed at people with whom one shares a closer relationship.
Interchangeability: “Please” And “Kindly” In Polite Requests
Despite their differences, “please” and “kindly” can be used interchangeably to make a polite request. The choice between the two depends on the level of formality desired in the given situation and the relationship with the person being addressed.
In many cases, using either “please” or “kindly” alone is sufficient to convey politeness and respect.
The Polite Use Of “Kindly” When Annoyed
Interestingly, “kindly” can also be employed when one is annoyed with someone but wants to maintain a polite demeanor. This usage allows the person to express their frustration while still adhering to societal standards of respectfulness.
While “kindly” may convey a hint of annoyance, its primary function remains to ensure politeness, even in slightly tense situations.
In conclusion, the use of “please” is widely regarded as the politest word to use in a request. Variations such as “could you kindly” and “would you kindly” offer slight nuances in tone but overall maintain the polite intent.
While there may be controversy surrounding the usage of “could you kindly” and personal preferences differ among individuals, the fundamental principles of politeness and respect remain paramount. Whether it’s a formal or informal setting, the appropriate choice of wording can elevate any request into a courteous exchange of words.
So, the next time you need to make a polite request, carefully consider your choice of phrasing and remember the impact it can have on the interaction.
