How to Respond to Courtesy Requests - ABC Education (2023)

Table of Contents
You can say: Instead of yes you can say: Instead of no you can say: Instead of maybe you can say: Practice using the following questions and answers to make and respond to polite requests: Related How to make polite requests with modal verbs What should I say before and after the meal? Use cause and effect language when talking about trends Videos

Knowing how to make a polite request is important. How about you answer them politely too? We have a handy list for you.

There are at least three types of answers you can give when responding to requests.

Not only is it important to be polite when making a request, but also when responding politely, as this will avoid misunderstandings.

You can say:

  • Sim
  • NO
  • I don't know
  • I am not sure

Instead of yes you can say:

  • Yes, I can / Yes, definitely.
  • Yes, of course! / Of course I will.
  • Yes I can. It goes this way.
  • Clear. It is 10 o'clock.
  • The right thing!
  • I can definitely do that for you.
  • Yes, here it is! / Of course, here it is.
  • Yes I will.
  • Yes I can.
  • Yes, in any case!

Instead of no you can say:

  • Naturally!
  • I'm afraid I still can't.

Instead of maybe you can say:

  • I'm afraid I don't know.
  • I'm not sure.

Practice using the following questions and answers to make and respond to polite requests:

A: Would you mind serving customers for me?

B: I can certainly do that for you.

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A: Can you tell me what time it is?

B: Of course. It is 10 o'clock.

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A: Can you tell me where the bathroom is?

B: Yes, I can. It goes this way.

See Also
7 Smart Alternatives to "I'm Looking forward to Hearing from You"The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Follow-Up Email

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A: Would you play the song for us at the party tonight?

B: No, sorry, I can't. I am not responsible for the music.

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A: Can you call me when the party starts?

B: OK, I will.

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A: Could you please reserve a seat for me?

B: Of course I will.

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A: Can you tell me what's in this dish?

B: I don't think I know.

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A: Can you give it to me?

B: Yes, here it is!

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A: Can you watch the video now?

B: I don't think I can do that anymore.

-------------

A: Are you coming to the meeting later?

B: I'm not sure.

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