if it pleases

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it pleases" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal contexts to express a polite request or suggestion, often implying that the speaker is deferring to the listener's preferences. Example: "If it pleases the court, I would like to present my argument now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Shift if it pleases you.

The New York Times

"But if it pleases him, that's fine".

The New York Times

"If it pleases him, that's fine.

The Guardian - Books

If it pleases your palate, come as a guest.

University of Pennsylvania

I'll be 80 next year, if it pleases God.

The Guardian - Film

You should wear a suit if it pleases you.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

If it please God,.

The New Yorker

"If it please the court," Kornstein said, "this is a case about an illegal contract".

The New Yorker

"But if it pleased Napoli too, then so much the better".

The Guardian - Sport

By Kay Ryan The New Yorker, November 24 , 1997P. 125 If it please God, View Article By Phil Klay By Troy Patterson By John Cassidy By Amy Davidson Sorkin.

The New Yorker

MARSHAL: If it please the Tribunal, the Defendant Hess is absent.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if it pleases", consider your audience. While appropriate in courtrooms or formal meetings, it may sound overly theatrical in casual conversations.

Common error

Avoid using "if it pleases" too frequently, as it can make your speech sound stilted or insincere. Use it sparingly to maintain its impact and avoid appearing obsequious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it pleases" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression used to introduce a request or statement with politeness and deference. It's often used to seek approval or show respect, particularly in formal settings, as supported by Ludwig examples from academic and news sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

28%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "if it pleases" serves as a polite and formal way to introduce a request or statement, often used to show respect and deference. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and most frequently used in News & Media and Academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to consider your audience and the setting to ensure it aligns with the level of formality required. Overuse may lead to an impression of insincerity. This expression, while correct, carries a formal tone and should be employed judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with your permission

Explicitly asks for permission to proceed or take an action.

if that's alright with you

Informal way to ask if something is acceptable or agreeable.

if it suits you

Focuses on the convenience or suitability for the other person.

if you don't mind

A more casual way of seeking permission or expressing a polite request.

as you see fit

Grants complete freedom and authority to the other person's decision.

at your discretion

Leaves the decision entirely up to the other person's judgment.

if it meets your approval

Highlights the importance of gaining the other person's approval.

if you will

Indicates a slight hesitation or a more elaborate way of phrasing something.

if you're amenable

Formal and sophisticated way of asking if someone is agreeable or willing.

should you desire

Highlights the other person's choice or preference in a formal tone.

FAQs

How to use "if it pleases" in a sentence?

"If it pleases" is typically used to introduce a polite request or statement, often in a formal setting. For example, "If it pleases the court, I would like to call my first witness".

What can I say instead of "if it pleases"?

You can use alternatives like "with your permission", "if you don't mind", or "if it suits you" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "if it pleases" formal or informal?

"If it pleases" is generally considered a formal expression. It's more suitable for courtrooms, official meetings, or interactions where a high degree of respect and deference is required. Using "if you don't mind" might be more appropriated in informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "if it pleases"?

It is appropriate to use "if it pleases" when addressing a superior, such as a judge, a senior colleague, or someone in a position of authority, especially when seeking their approval or permission for something.