Could you possibly?
Very polite
Use this phrase when you want to be extra polite and give someone an easy 'out' when asking.
15초 만에
- A very polite way to ask for a favor or help.
- Softens a request to avoid sounding bossy or demanding.
- Best for strangers, bosses, or asking for big favors.
뜻
This is a super polite way to ask for a favor. It adds extra cushion to your request so you don't sound bossy.
주요 예문
3 / 6Asking a stranger for directions
Could you possibly tell me where the station is?
Could you possibly tell me where the station is?
Asking a boss for a deadline extension
Could you possibly give me one more day on this report?
Could you possibly give me one more day on this report?
Texting a neighbor for a favor
Could you possibly keep an eye on my package today?
Could you possibly keep an eye on my package today?
문화적 배경
This phrase is a hallmark of British 'understatement' and politeness. It reflects a cultural desire to avoid being pushy or demanding. It became a standard social tool to navigate hierarchy without causing offense.
The 'No' Buffer
Using `possibly` gives the other person a 'logical' way to say no. They can say 'Actually, it's not possible,' which feels less mean than just saying 'No.'
British Sarcasm
In the UK, if someone uses this for a very simple task like `Could you possibly open the door?`, they might be annoyed that you haven't done it already!
15초 만에
- A very polite way to ask for a favor or help.
- Softens a request to avoid sounding bossy or demanding.
- Best for strangers, bosses, or asking for big favors.
What It Means
Could you possibly is the ultimate 'polite' shield. It turns a direct command into a gentle suggestion. You are basically asking if something is even a tiny bit possible. It shows you respect the other person's time. It makes a big request feel much smaller and softer.
How To Use It
Put this phrase right before the action you want. Use the base form of the verb. For example: Could you possibly help me? It works best when you are asking for a favor. Always use a rising intonation at the end. This makes you sound genuinely hopeful and kind. Don't forget to add a please at the end for extra points!
When To Use It
Use it when you are asking for something big. It is perfect for talking to a boss or a stranger. Use it if you are interrupting someone who looks busy. It is great for asking a neighbor to watch your cat. Use it when you feel a bit shy about asking. It works well in emails to people you don't know well.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this with your best friend for small things. It will sound like you are being sarcastic or weird. Could you possibly pass the salt? sounds like a joke. Avoid it during emergencies. If the house is on fire, don't be polite! Just shout Help! instead. Also, avoid it if you are actually angry with someone. It can sound passive-aggressive if your tone is sharp.
Cultural Background
British people are famous for using this phrase often. It comes from a culture of 'negative politeness.' This means trying not to impose on others. In the UK, being direct can sometimes feel a bit rude. Adding words like possibly creates a 'buffer zone.' It gives the other person an easy way to say no. It is all about maintaining social harmony and saving face.
Common Variations
Would it be possible to...?(Even more formal)Could you perhaps...?(A bit more old-fashioned)I was wondering if you could possibly...?(The 'triple-polite' version)Any chance you could...?(The casual, cool version for friends)
사용 참고사항
This phrase is formal and high-register. It is perfect for professional settings or when speaking to people you don't know well. Avoid using it with close friends unless you are asking for a massive favor or being funny.
The 'No' Buffer
Using `possibly` gives the other person a 'logical' way to say no. They can say 'Actually, it's not possible,' which feels less mean than just saying 'No.'
British Sarcasm
In the UK, if someone uses this for a very simple task like `Could you possibly open the door?`, they might be annoyed that you haven't done it already!
Don't Overuse It
If you use this for every single sentence, you will sound like a character in a period drama. Save it for when you actually need to be extra nice.
예시
6Could you possibly tell me where the station is?
Could you possibly tell me where the station is?
Very polite for approaching someone you don't know.
Could you possibly give me one more day on this report?
Could you possibly give me one more day on this report?
Shows respect for the boss's authority.
Could you possibly keep an eye on my package today?
Could you possibly keep an eye on my package today?
Softens the request so it doesn't feel like a chore.
Could you possibly stop playing the drums at 3 AM?
Could you possibly stop playing the drums at 3 AM?
The extreme politeness makes the sarcasm obvious.
Could you possibly just listen to me for a minute?
Could you possibly just listen to me for a minute?
Expresses a vulnerable need without being demanding.
Could we possibly sit by the window instead?
Could we possibly sit by the window instead?
A polite way to request a change in a restaurant.
셀프 테스트
Choose the best word to complete this polite request.
Could you ___ help me move this heavy box?
The phrase `Could you possibly` is the standard polite construction for requests.
Which phrase makes this request the most formal?
___ lend me your pen for a second?
`Could you possibly` is much more formal and polite than `Can you` or a direct command.
🎉 점수: /2
시각 학습 자료
Formality Scale of Requests
Friends/Family
Can you...?
Colleagues
Could you...?
Strangers/Bosses
Could you possibly...?
Official/High Stakes
Would it be possible to...?
Where to use 'Could you possibly?'
At the Office
Could you possibly review this?
Public Transport
Could I possibly squeeze past?
With Neighbors
Could you possibly lower the music?
Customer Service
Could you possibly check the back?
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Yes, it is much more polite. Can you is functional, but Could you possibly shows extra respect.
Absolutely! You can say Could I possibly have a glass of water? to be very polite.
Yes, especially if you are asking a favor from someone you aren't super close with. It makes the text feel less demanding.
Not at all. It is still very common in professional and polite social settings today.
Possibly is more common in this specific phrase. Perhaps sounds a bit more formal or literary.
Only if you want to be sarcastic. For example, Could you possibly be any louder? means they are being way too loud.
You can say Yes, of course! or I'd be happy to. If you can't, say I'm afraid I can't right now.
Yes, but it is even more common in British English. Americans might just say Could you... please?
It usually goes right after the subject you. For example: Could you possibly [verb]...?
No, it makes you sound socially intelligent. It shows you know how to navigate social boundaries.
관련 표현
Would you mind...?
Another very polite way to ask for a favor.
If it's not too much trouble
A phrase added to requests to show you don't want to be a burden.
I was wondering if...
A soft way to start a request or ask a question.
Any chance you could...?
A more casual, friendly way to ask for a favor.
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