Business English A2 · Lesson 10B

Grammar Bank

The rules behind this lesson — form, use, model sentences and the mistakes to avoid.

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Grammar focus of this lesson

would like · would rather · polite request forms

2 structures

would like / 'd like to
A polite way to say what you want.
I've got this
Rules & form
- ›would like + noun or + to + verb.
- ›Contract to 'd like in speech.
- ›Question: Would you like…? Offer: Would you like some water?
- ›Answers: Yes, please. / No, thanks. / I'd love to.
Examples
- “I'd like to travel the world.”
- “We'd like a table for two, please.”
- “Would you like me to send the agenda?”
Watch out · would like to going ✗ → would like to go ✓.
Your own example
can / could for polite requests
Asking for things and offering help politely.
I've got this
Rules & form
- ›Can you…? — neutral. Could you…? — more polite.
- ›Can I / Could I… ? to ask permission.
- ›Add please and soften with possibly / just.
- ›Answers: Of course. / Sure. / I'm afraid I can't.
Examples
- “Could you send me the file, please?”
- “Can I use this room for ten minutes?”
- “Could I possibly call you back later?”
Watch out · Could is not past here — it's politeness.
Your own example