s'il vous plait

Definition

A polite expression used when making a request.

Example

Etymology

'S'il vous plaît' translates to 'if it pleases you' and uses polite language stemming from the 17th-century French usage of conditional politeness.

How & Where It’s Used

This phrase is used in both formal and informal settings, typically in spoken interactions but also in writing. It's standard in social contexts to request something politely.