Making and Responding to Requests
Sample phrases (from formal to informal)
- A: Could I trouble/bother you to lend me $200?
B: (positive) Of course, it's no problem/trouble (at all).
B: (negative) It's impossible for me because I've only got $150.
- A: Could you please take me to the airport tomorrow morning?
B: (positive) Certainly.
B: (negative) I wish I could, but I've got an appointment at 8:30.
- A: Will you help me fix this error, please?
B: (positive) Sure. I'll be glad to.
B: (negative) I'm afraid I can't. I don't know anything about computers.
- A: Would you mind letting me borrow your book?
B: (positive) No, not at all.
B: (negative) I'm sorry, but I need it for next week's exam.
- A: I'd like you to pick up some oil on the way home, if you have time.
B: (positive) No problem.
B: (negative) I can't do that because I won't be back until 11:00.
- A: How/What about cleaning your room today?
B: (positive) No sweat.
B: (negative) Sorry. I'm going out with Lucy.
See also:
- Greeting People and Responding to Greetings
- Making and Responding to Introductions
- Saying Goodbye
- Making, Accepting and Refusing Invitations
- Thanking People and Responding to Thanks
- Apologizing and Responding to Apologies
- Complimenting and Responding to Compliments
- Getting Attention and Interrupting a Conversation
- Asking for Information and Giving Directions
- Offering to Help and Responding
- Expressing Sympathy and Responding
- Expressing Opinions
- Agreeing and Disagreeing
