Asking people to do things

A. Could B. (Yes,) of course (cer-

Would tainly) all right.

you... (please)?

Will you.... I'm afraid/Sorry,

(please)? OK? I can't.

..., will you? (No,)Ican't./Iwon't.

would

Do you mind -ing...?

Would

Will you be so kind as to...?

Would — (Very formal)

May I ask you to do me a favour?

Be so kind as to...

4.4.2. In varying degrees of politeness ask someone in the group to...

1. turn the radio off;

2. close the door,

3. tell you the truth;

4. show you the way;

5. carry your suitcase;

6. speak to the point;

7. do you a favour;

8. keep an eye on your luggage.

He/She will comply or refuse.

4.4.3. Express your willingness or refuse to do what you are asked.

Model: T. Will you help me to translate this article. (Let's have a look at it.)

S. Certainly, with pleasure. Let's have a look.

1. Would you mind lending me your pencil for a moment? (Here it is.)

2. Would you mind reading these papers? (I've left my glasses at home.)

3. Will you do me a favour? (What is it?)

4. Will you, please, translate this notice to me? (I don't quite understand it.)

5. Help me to move this table, please. (Where shall we put?)

4.4.4. Look, listen and then dramatize.

Tom has been waiting to be served for a long time. He is impatient.

TOM Waiter, bring me the menu, will you?

WAITER Just a moment. I'm coming. (Ten minutes later.) Now, what would you like?

TOM I'd like to see the menu. Would you get me one, please?

WAITER Yes, certainly. Here you are.

TOM Thank you. Ah! But this is in French.Would you mind giving me the English one?

WAITER It's written in English too, in smaller print. There.

TOM Thanks. I'll need a while to choose. Could you come back in a minute?

WAITER Right. (Five minutes later.) Now, what are you having?

TOM I'm sorry, I haven't decided yet. Do you mind giving me a couple of min­utes?

WAITER All right, but would you be so kind as to make up your mind soon? We're very busy just now as you can see, sir.

4.4.5. Translate the notice. Say where you are likely to see them.

1. In; 2. Out; 3. No entry; 4. Pull; 5. Push; 6. Private; 7. No admittance; 8. Emergency; 9. No trespassing; 10. No overtaking; 11. No parking; 12. Wet paint; 13. Keep clear of the doors; 14. For hire.