Please: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
December 16, 2025

1. Please (verb): To cause satisfaction or happiness.
2. Please (adverb): Used as a polite addition to requests or commands.
3. Please (verb): To accommodate or comply with someone's wishes.

The word "please" is widely used in the English language, both as a verb and an adverb, to express politeness, request something, or indicate satisfaction. It appears frequently in both formal and informal contexts. Continue reading to explore its definitions, synonyms, antonyms, pronunciation, and more.

"Please" Definition: What Does "Please" Mean?

The word "please" serves multiple purposes in English, conveying politeness, satisfaction, or compliance.

Definition of "Please": Express Satisfaction

"Please" can function as a verb, meaning to cause joy, satisfaction, or gratification.

Definition of "Please": Show Politeness

As an adverb, "please" is commonly used in requests or commands to make them more courteous.

Definition of "Please": Comply with Wishes

In another verb usage, "please" means to act according to someone's wishes or desires.

Parts of Speech

The word "please" serves as both a verb and an adverb, each with distinct uses. As a verb, it means to satisfy, gratify, or accommodate someone’s wishes, often used in formal or informal requests. It also conveys a sense of causing happiness or enjoyment, such as in the phrase "to please someone." As an adverb, "please" is primarily used in polite expressions or requests, adding courtesy to commands or inquiries. While its adverbial use is the most common in modern English, its verb form remains significant in both casual and formal speech.

How to Pronounce "Please"?

The word "please" is pronounced as "pleez." It has one syllable, with a long "ee" sound. The "pl" at the beginning is pronounced like the "pl" in "plant," while the "eez" at the end sounds like the word "ease." When saying "please," ensure the "eez" sound is drawn out smoothly for clarity.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /pliːz/.

Synonyms of "Please": Other Ways to Say "Please"

There are several synonyms for "please," depending on the context.

  • Delight
  • Gratify
  • Appease
  • Charm
  • Satisfy
  • Gladden
  • Request
  • Kindly

Antonyms of "Please": Other Ways to Say "Please"

These words have opposite meanings to "please:"

  • Disappoint
  • Dissatisfy
  • Displease
  • Offend
  • Annoy
  • Reject
  • Refuse

Examples of "Please" in a Sentence

Below are some example sentences using "please" in different contexts.

  1. Please hand me the book from the shelf.
  2. It is always nice to say please when making a request.
  3. Does this dress please you?
  4. We aim to please our customers with excellent service.
  5. Can you please close the window?
  6. Her singing never fails to please the audience.
  7. Try to do as you please, but be considerate of others.
  8. Would you please be quiet?
  9. He always tries to please everyone around him.
  10. The chef made a dish to please all the guests.

Frequency of Use

"Please" is one of the most frequently used words in English, appearing in both spoken and written language, particularly in polite requests and commands.

Variants of "Please"

There are a few common variations of "please."

  1. Pleasing: The present participle form, often used to describe something enjoyable.
  2. Pleased: The past tense, indicating someone has been satisfied.

Related Terms to "Please"

These words are closely related to "please."

  1. Politeness
  2. Gratitude
  3. Request
  4. Appeasement
  5. Obedience

Etymology: History and Origins of "Please"

The word "please" originates from the Latin word placere, meaning "to be agreeable." It entered Middle English through Old French as plaisir, retaining its meaning of satisfaction and politeness.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Please"

Below are some words derived from "please."

  1. Pleasurable: Something that brings joy.
  2. Pleasant: A synonym for enjoyable.

Common Misspellings of "Please"

People sometimes misspell "please" as follows:

  1. Plees
  2. Pleaz

10 Idioms Similar to Please

Here are some idioms with meanings similar to please.

  1. At your service
  2. Be my guest
  3. Suit yourself
  4. As you wish
  5. Go ahead
  6. Knock yourself out
  7. Whatever floats your boat
  8. Help yourself
  9. If it pleases you
  10. Have it your way

10 Common Questions About "Please"

Here are some frequently asked questions about "please."

1. What part of speech is "please"?

"Please" can be used as both a verb and an adverb, depending on the context.

2. Is "please" always necessary in requests?

While not mandatory, "please" is commonly used to make requests more polite.

3. Does "please" have different meanings?

Yes, "please" can indicate politeness, satisfaction, or compliance.

4. Can "please" be used sarcastically?

Yes, "please" can be used sarcastically to express disbelief or frustration.

5. What is the origin of "please"?

"Please" comes from the Latin word "placere," meaning "to be agreeable."

6. Is "please" formal or informal?

"Please" is appropriate in both formal and informal settings.

7. Can "please" be used in negative sentences?

Yes, "please" can be used in negative sentences, such as "Please don't do that."

8. How is "please" used in different cultures?

"Please" is widely used in English-speaking cultures, but different languages have varying customs for politeness.

9. Is there a difference between "please" and "kindly"?

Yes, "please" is more common in everyday speech, while "kindly" is often used in formal or professional settings.

10. Can "please" be omitted in casual conversations?

Yes, in very casual conversations, "please" may be omitted without sounding rude.

Conclusion

"Please" is a versatile word that functions as both a verb and an adverb, meaning to express politeness, satisfaction, or compliance with someone’s wishes. Its importance in everyday language makes it an essential tool for polite and effective communication. Whether used to request something courteously or to indicate contentment, "please" remains a fundamental part of English interactions.

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