Could ~ / Would ~

Question

How does "Could you get me a cup of water?" sounds? Is it formal and polite? How about "I'd like to drink a cup of water, please"?

Clive · Accepted Answer

Such requests do not sound polite without 'please'.

The usual collocation is 'a glass of water'. Or you could just say some water.

Could you get me a glass of water, please? OK, although more polite is 'May I have a glass of water, please?

I'd like to drink a cup of water, please. Not natural.

Clive

CalifJim · Answer

lucas21cHow does "Could you get me a cup of water?" sounds?

Sorry. You can't do that. If you use does, do, or did (as when you form a question) you cannot put an 's' on the main verb.

How does (it) sound?
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It's not too bad if you talking to someone you know very well, but I recommend using 'please' before the main verb otherwise:

Could you please get me a cup of water?

lucas21cHow about "I'd like to drink a cup of water, please"?

No. I wouldn't say it that way. You don't need 'to drink':

I'd like a glass of water.

And it's a statement of your feelings more than a request, even if you add 'please'.

If you're in ordering in a restaurant, however, it works:

I'd like a hamburger, fries, and a glass of water (please).

CJ

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