please
verb (transitive)
UK/pliːz/US/pliz/
To make someone feel happy or satisfied; to give pleasure or satisfaction (often used with an object). Can also mean ‘to have or offer what is desired.’
Example Sentences
It always pleases me to see students enjoying their lessons.
They rearranged the schedule to please everyone involved in the project.
You can pick whichever dish you want—please yourself.
He designed the garden primarily to please his mother, who loves flowers.
If you want to please your guests, consider serving their favorite desserts.
She tries to please everyone at work, which can be exhausting at times.
Nothing pleases a pet dog more than a good belly rub or a tasty treat.
We hope the redesign of the app will please users by making navigation more intuitive.
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Antonyms
exclamation
UK/pliːz/US/pliz/
Used as a polite expression or request, typically when asking for something or inviting someone to do something. It can also show politeness, soften commands, or add courtesy.
Example Sentences
Please pass the salt.
May I see your ticket, please?
Could you turn the music down, please?
Please come in and make yourself at home.
Excuse me, please—I need to get to the front of the queue.
She said, “Please don’t leave the door unlocked,” emphasizing the importance of security.
When you finish reading that document, please share your thoughts with the team.
Please remember to submit your assignments before the deadline.
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Synonyms
How to Use
To make someone happy or satisfied; used as a polite request.The word 'please' serves both as a verb and as a polite expression. As a verb, it means to make someone happy or satisfied ('The song pleased the audience'). It is widely used in polite requests ('Please open the door') or to express willingness ('Do as you please'). In polite expressions, 'please' can be placed at the beginning or end of a sentence ('Please pass the salt' or 'Pass the salt, please'). As a gerund ('pleasing'), it can describe ongoing actions ('The arrangement is pleasing to the eye').
Alternatives
Alternatives for 'please' include 'kindly' (formal), 'satisfy,' 'delight,' or 'gratify,' depending on context. For polite requests, consider 'would you mind' or 'kindly.'
Writing
In writing, 'please' is critical for politeness and softening directives ('Please complete the report by Monday'). Use it sparingly in formal contexts to maintain its impact. For variety, consider synonyms like 'kindly' or use indirect phrases ('Would you kindly...?'). The gerund 'pleasing' works well for aesthetic or descriptive contexts ('The colors were pleasing to the eye').
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, 'please' is essential for politeness. It is commonly used in requests ('Please wait a moment'), preferences ('I’d like coffee, please'), or gratitude ('Yes, please'). Its flexibility makes it indispensable for maintaining friendly and courteous interactions.
Etymology
Derived from Old French 'plaisir' ('to please, satisfy') and Latin 'placere' ('to be agreeable'). Interesting fact: The usage of 'please' as a polite expression evolved in English from phrases like 'if it pleases you,' highlighting its roots in courtesy and respect.
