would you mind
Asking permission courteously
Would you mind is a polite formula for making requests, softening what might otherwise sound like a demand.
The literal question asks whether the listener would object: Would you mind closing the window?
A "no" answer means willingness to comply, which sometimes causes confusion.
The phrase can also introduce complaints with thin courtesy: Would you mind not putting your feet on my desk?
- could youPolite inquiry phrase
- pleasePolite appeal word
- favorKind act or preference
- requestFormal act of seeking
- politeShowing good manners
do me a favor · asking · permission · trouble · bother · inconvenience · hesitate · perhaps · possibly · excuse me · pardon me · pardon · courtesy · gentle · tentative · apologetic · reluctant · impose
- Pleasantriesplease, thank you, thanks, sorry, excuse me
- polite phrasesplease, thank you, yes sir, hello, no sir
- asking for helpplease help, help me, lend a hand, help wanted, SOS