When visiting or communicating with locals in New Zealand, it is always polite to use the word “please” appropriately. Like any language, New Zealand English has various ways to express politeness and use “please” in different contexts. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “please” in New Zealand. Let’s get started!
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Formal “Please” in New Zealand English
In formal situations, it is important to use the appropriate level of politeness. Here are some common ways to say “please” formally in New Zealand:
- “Please” – The most straightforward and widely used way to express politeness in formal situations in New Zealand is simply saying “please.” For example, “Could you please pass me the salt?”
- “Could you” – Adding the phrase “could you” before “please” is another polite way to make a request. For instance, “Could you please help me with this report?”
- “Would you mind” – This phrase is commonly used in New Zealand to politely ask someone if they would mind doing something. For example, “Would you mind turning down the music, please?”
- “If you could” – Another polite way to ask for something in a formal context is to use the phrase “if you could.” For instance, “If you could please forward me the email, I would appreciate it.”
Informal “Please” in New Zealand English
In more casual or informal situations, the use of “please” can vary slightly. Here are some common ways to say “please” informally in New Zealand:
- “Please” – Even in informal situations, saying “please” directly is still considered polite. For example, “Pass the chips, please.”
- “Please, can you” – Adding “can you” after “please” is a common informal way to make a request. For instance, “Please, can you grab me a drink while you’re up?”
- “Could you” – Similar to the formal context, using “could you” before “please” is commonly used in informal situations too. For example, “Could you please take care of the dishes?”
Regional Variations
While the use of “please” is generally consistent across New Zealand, there may be subtle regional variations in certain areas. Here are some examples:
Example 1:
In some parts of the South Island, you may occasionally hear locals say “pretty please” as a more affectionate way to ask for something. For example, “Could you pass me the jam, pretty please?”
Example 2:
In certain areas of the North Island, locals sometimes use the phrase “if you wouldn’t mind” instead of “if you could please.” For instance, “If you wouldn’t mind, could you bring me a towel from the bathroom?”
Remember, these regional variations are not widely used and may not be encountered during everyday interactions in New Zealand.
Additional Tips for Saying “Please”
To ensure your use of “please” is effective and well-received, here are some additional tips:
- 1. Use a friendly tone: When saying “please,” make sure your tone is warm and friendly to convey politeness effectively.
- 2. Smile and make eye contact: Pairing “please” with a smile and maintaining eye contact shows your sincerity and appreciation.
- 3. Consider local customs: Familiarize yourself with New Zealand customs and culture to better understand how politeness is expressed in different situations. This will help you gauge the appropriate use of “please.”
- 4. Be concise: Keep your requests clear and concise. Avoid unnecessary words or lengthy explanations.
- 5. Say “thank you” as well: “Please” and “thank you” often go hand in hand. After receiving assistance, don’t forget to express gratitude by saying “thank you.”
By incorporating these tips into your interactions, you will create a positive and respectful environment when using “please” in New Zealand.
Remember, language is ever-evolving, and local customs could change over time. The key is to observe and adapt accordingly, paying attention to the context and people around you. Embracing the nuances of language will help you connect even better with the warm and friendly people of New Zealand!
