Grammar: Polite Requests & Offers
A2 Lesson 18: Using 'Would Like'
Direct vs. Polite
When we talk about something we want, we can be direct or polite. The word you choose depends on the situation.
🗣️ Direct: 'want'
Use want for informal situations with people you know well, like friends and family.
Example: I want some water.
🤝 Polite: 'would like'
Use would like for more formal situations, like restaurants or shops, or with people you don't know.
Example: I'd like some water, please.
The Grammar Rule 📖
How to Form 'Would Like'
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Positive (+) | Subject + would like ('d like) + ... | She'd like to see the menu. |
| Negative (-) | Subject + would not like (wouldn't like) + ... | He wouldn't like another coffee. |
| Question (?) | Would + Subject + like + ...? | Would you like a map? |
In a Restaurant
The question "Would you like...?" is a very common and polite way to offer something to someone.
Waiter: Hello. Would you like a table for two?
Customer: Yes, please.
Waiter: And would you like something to drink?
Customer: Yes, I'd like a fresh coconut, please.
Practice Your Grammar 🎯
Exercise: Choose the Best Phrase
For each situation, choose the more appropriate phrase.
- You are speaking to your best friend: "What do you ___ to do tonight?"
→ want - You are in a nice restaurant speaking to the waiter: "I ___ the fish amok, please."
→ 'd like - A hotel receptionist is speaking to a guest: "___ a map of Siem Reap?"
→ Would you like - You are telling your mother about your dream for the future: "I ___ to be a doctor."
→ want
Your Grammar Mission ⭐
At a Cafe
Write a short, 4-line dialogue between a waiter and a customer at a cafe. Use "Would you like...?" and "I'd like...".
Key Vocabulary
- Desire A strong feeling of wanting to have or do something.
- Polite Having good manners and showing respect for others.
- Formal Used in serious situations or with people you don't know well.
- Offer To ask if someone would like to have or do something.