Please Meaning
Please Definition & Usage
Used to make a polite request or express a wish.
Examples
- "Could you please help me with this task?"
- "Please, pass the salt."
- "Would you please open the window?"
- "Please don't hesitate to call if you need anything."
- "Can you please send me the report by noon?"
An expression used to soften commands or requests, often showing politeness.
Examples
- "Please, have a seat."
- "Please, don't be upset."
- "Please, allow me to help you."
- "Please, take your time."
- "Please, let me know if you have any questions."
To bring happiness or satisfaction to someone.
Examples
- "The news pleased everyone at the party."
- "It pleases me to see you doing well."
- "Her kindness always pleases those around her."
- "This new arrangement will surely please the clients."
- "The manager was pleased with the team's performance."
Cultural Context
The word 'please' comes from the Old French 'plaisir', which means 'to please, to delight'. In English, its usage evolved into both a polite form of request and a way to express satisfaction or happiness. It plays a crucial role in maintaining politeness in both professional and personal interactions.
The Polite Request
Story
The Polite Request
One crisp morning, Emma entered the coffee shop just as the sun was casting a warm glow through the windows. She approached the counter and smiled at the barista. 'Good morning! Could I please have a cappuccino and a croissant?' she asked politely. The barista, a young man named John, nodded with a smile, 'Of course, please take a seat and I’ll bring it over to you.' As Emma sat down by the window, she looked around at the other patrons, each absorbed in their own world. Some were typing away on laptops, others reading books. She observed how 'please' seemed to play a part in the flow of conversation: the elderly man at the corner table was speaking to his friend, 'Please, tell me more about your trip to Italy,' and a couple nearby were softly talking, 'Please, don't leave without me.' Emma reflected on how simple words like 'please' could change the tone of a conversation, making it feel more respectful and thoughtful. A few minutes later, the barista approached with her order, 'Here you go, your cappuccino and croissant. I hope this pleases you.' As she took a sip of her coffee and bit into the warm croissant, Emma smiled. It truly did please her—both the delicious taste and the kind interaction. 'Thank you,' she said, 'It’s perfect.' As the day continued, Emma realized how these small acts of politeness—the use of 'please' in everyday conversations—helped to create a community of respect and kindness. In the afternoon, Emma had a meeting with her boss, Mr. Thompson. As they discussed a project, she used 'please' again, asking him, 'Could you please give me some feedback on this proposal?' Mr. Thompson, pleased with her professionalism, responded, 'Of course, Emma. Please make the necessary changes and we'll move forward.' Later that evening, Emma sat down with her friend, Sarah, at a local park. They were chatting about their upcoming vacation plans. 'Please let me know if you want to join us,' Sarah said. Emma smiled, appreciating the way the word softened the invitation. 'I’d love to, thanks for asking!' The day had been full of small, polite exchanges. Emma thought about how 'please' was more than just a word—it was a bridge that connected people, fostering respect and goodwill in the simplest of ways.