Question
Updated on
28 Feb 2021
- Japanese
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English (US)
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English (UK)
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Spanish (Mexico)
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Question about English (US)
Is it okay and normal to ask someone who is not your friend "can you" without adding "please"?
Is it okay and normal to ask someone who is not your friend "can you" without adding "please"?
I'm working as a part-time tutor, and a student who is Ameican texted me "Can you translate what I just said to Japanese?" Since I learned "can you.." sound rude, I'm confused.
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28 Feb 2021
Featured answer
- English (US)
It’s very casual, and there could be a small chance that a person you do not know might find it rude. If you want to sound polite, or formal, I would say “Will you please...”
I hope this helps!
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- English (US)
It’s very casual, and there could be a small chance that a person you do not know might find it rude. If you want to sound polite, or formal, I would say “Will you please...”
I hope this helps!
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- Japanese
@lisakgeo Thanks a lot for answering my question!
So, it doesn't necessarily sound rude?
Is it totally okay for you if someone stranger asks you "Can you translate what I just said to English?"
So, it doesn't necessarily sound rude?
Is it totally okay for you if someone stranger asks you "Can you translate what I just said to English?"
- English (US)
Yes, you can definitely use it! But most people prefer to use the more polite version I gave you above.
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- Japanese
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