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Tue 22 Dec, 2015 12:49 pm
Hello, it might be a stupid question, but I am an international student, and I always confused about how to politely make requests. I think the word "please" means polite, but when I say something like "please let me know if there is anything else I need to submit", one of my friends told me I shouldn't say in that way because it sounds like an order. I am really confused. People in my school won't get mad at me. They are super nice because they know English is not my native language, but I still hope I could be polite to them.
Is there any better way to politely request something? Which of the following sounds polite?
"If there is anything else I need to submit, please let me know."
"Let me know if there is anything else I need to submit, please."
"Could you please let me know if there is anything else I need to submit?"
Or, any other suggestions?
Thank you very much!
Do not listen to your friend. All of your suggested requests are polite. As you have correctly understood, the word 'please' signifies polite intent.
@Danqing,
Your original idea was good. Alternative 1 and 3 are good as well. Only alternative 2 seems a bit awkward.
Is the person who told you your original sentence was wrong a native English speaker?
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