26984 words

pleases

10 definitions • 22 examples
1
used to make a request more polite:

Examples:

Could I have two coffees and a tea, please?
Please remember to close the windows before you leave.
2
used to add force to a request or demand:

Examples:

Please, David, put the knife down.
Oh, please. Do shut up!
3
used especially by children to a teacher or other adult in order to get their attention:

Examples:

Please, Miss, I know the answer!
4
used when accepting something politely or enthusiastically:

Examples:

"More potatoes?" "Please."
"May I bring my husband?" "Please do."
"Would you like dessert?" "Oh, yes please."
5
to make someone feel happy or satisfied, or to give someone pleasure:

Examples:

I only got married to please my parents.
He was always a good boy, very friendly and eager to please.
[ + obj + to infinitive ] It always pleases me to see a well-designed book!
6
to want, like, or choose, when used with words such as "whatever", "whoever", and "anywhere":

Examples:

She thinks she can just do whatever/as she pleases.
I shall go out with whoever I please.
7
used to express surprise and anger:

Examples:

They want £200, if you please, just to replace a couple of broken windows!
8
used to make a request more polite:

Examples:

Take your seats, ladies and gentlemen, if you please.
9
commonly used in order to make a request more polite, or, sometimes, to make it stronger or urgent:

Examples:

Could I please have some ketchup for my hamburger?
Please be sure to take all your personal belongings when you leave the train.
Please do as I say and don’t ask questions.
"Would you like some more salad?" "Please (= yes, I would)."
10
to make someone feel happy or satisfied, or to give someone pleasure:

Examples:

[ I/T ] He did what he could to please her, but she was hard to please.
[ T ] I’m pleased to report that sales have increased by 15%.
[ I ] She’ll listen to what you say, but in the end she’ll do as/what she pleases (= what she wants to do).

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