can we please

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can we please" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to make a polite request or suggestion. Example: "Can we please discuss the project timeline during our meeting?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can we please see some?

The Guardian

Can we please not think about that?

The New Yorker

Can we please skip the parks?

The New York Times - Travel

"Can we, please?" Olivia asks now.

The New Yorker

Can we please talk about Trump?

The Guardian - Opinion

Can we please get to Buster soon?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Can we please take them off?

The New York Times

Can we please stop printing this rubbish?

The Guardian

And can we please have it back?

The Guardian

Can We Please Stop Talking About 'Collusion'?

The New York Times

"Can we please talk about drinking?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when choosing between "can we please" and more formal alternatives like "may we kindly". "Can we please" is versatile, but higher formality may be more appropriate in certain business or academic settings.

Common error

While "can we please" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "may we kindly" or "would you mind if we" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can we please" functions as a polite interrogative used to make a request or suggestion. It combines the modal verb 'can' indicating possibility or permission, with 'please' to soften the request and show consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a grammatically correct way to phrase such inquiries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can we please" serves as a versatile and grammatically sound phrase to make polite requests or suggestions across diverse settings. As per Ludwig AI, the expression is indeed valid, and its neutral register, with frequent use in News & Media, Academia and Formal & Business contexts, positions it as appropriate for a wide range of communications. While it may not always be fitting for the most formal scenarios, its effectiveness in conveying politeness while seeking cooperation remains evident from its examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can we kindly

Replaces "please" with "kindly" to add politeness.

could we possibly

Adds extra emphasis on the possibility and politeness of the request.

might we perhaps

Introduces a higher degree of uncertainty and formality.

would you mind if we

Frames the request as a question of potential inconvenience.

is it alright if we

Seeks permission with an emphasis on ensuring acceptability.

may we kindly

Emphasizes politeness and formality in the request.

could we possibly consider

Adds emphasis on the consideration aspect of the request.

would it be possible for us to

Introduces a more formal and indirect way of asking.

is it okay if we

Uses a more informal tone to seek permission.

shall we

Proposes a suggestion for a joint action.

FAQs

How can I use "can we please" in a sentence?

"Can we please" is used to make a polite request or suggestion. For example, "Can we please discuss the project timeline during our meeting?" or "Can we please submit our reports by Friday?"

What are some alternatives to "can we please" for making a request?

You can use alternatives like "could we kindly", "may we please", or "would you mind if we" depending on the level of formality required.

When is it appropriate to use "can we please" versus more formal phrases?

"Can we please" is suitable for most general situations. Use more formal alternatives like "may we kindly" in professional settings, academic papers, or when addressing someone in a position of authority.

Is "can we please" grammatically correct?

Yes, "can we please" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English sentence structure for making a polite request or suggestion.