Start with a real moment.
The same request can feel very different depending on its wording. “Send the file” is direct. “Could you send the file, please?” gives the other person more room to respond. Politeness also depends on tone, the relationship and how demanding the request is; a modal alone cannot make every request appropriate.
See how the sentence works.
Could + you + base verb + details?
Read the sentence as one idea, then notice the job each part does.
Understand the choices.
Use could you or would you before a base verb when asking someone to act: “Could you check the address?” Could here makes a present request less direct; it does not mean that you are asking about the past.
Use could I to request permission or a service: “Could I have a receipt?” Use I’d like + noun or to-infinitive to state a preference politely: “I’d like a window seat.” In a café, “Can I have …?” is also normal and friendly.
Would you mind takes an -ing form: “Would you mind closing the door?” It asks whether the action would bother the listener. “Not at all” means they are happy to help. For a large request, add a reason and allow an alternative or a refusal.
Useful sentences, in context.
Could I have the bill, please?
Could I have requests a service.
Would you mind speaking a little more slowly?
Mind takes speaking, not to speak.
Could you send it by Friday, if possible?
A clear deadline plus if possible leaves room to discuss.
A small change makes a difference.
AvoidWould you mind to help me?
UseWould you mind helping me?
After mind, use an -ing form. After could you, use the base form instead.
A MOMENT TO PRACTISE
Your turn.
Choose an answer, then check the explanation. There is no timer and nothing to sign up for.
TAKE IT INTO YOUR DAY
Make it yours.
Write a request you genuinely need to make this week. Include the action, one useful detail and a realistic deadline if needed. Read it aloud and check whether it sounds like something you would say.
Further reading · British Council LearnEnglish
Examples and explanations on this page are written for Sentence Master. See something we should improve? Let us know.
Keep building your sentences.
Continue with practice and review in the Sentence Master app.
Explore the app