please state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "please state" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to request someone to provide specific information or details about a subject. Example: "In your report, please state your findings clearly and concisely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Counsel: Will the witness please state his name.

The New Yorker

D Undecided, please state.

The Guardian

If 'yes', please state group".

The Guardian

Please state your name at the tone".

The New York Times

Please state your problem slowly and clearly.

The New York Times

Please state your reason for calling, after the beep.

The New Yorker

Please state if you'd prefer to remain anonymous.

The Guardian

Please state your age and your school clearly.

The Guardian - Books

B Hinder C Have no effect D Undecided, please state.

The Guardian

If yes, please state your method of doing so.

The Guardian - Books

Please state the problem for which you would like help.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In surveys or questionnaires, use "please state" to prompt respondents to provide open-ended answers, allowing for richer and more detailed feedback.

Common error

Avoid using "please state" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural alternatives like "can you tell me" or "what is".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please state" functions as a polite imperative, directly requesting the recipient to provide specific information. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in formal contexts where clear and concise statements are needed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "please state" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to politely request specific information. Ludwig confirms it is best suited for formal and professional contexts such as news reports, scientific documents, and business communications. While versatile, it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding overly formal in casual settings. Alternative phrases like "kindly specify" or "could you clarify" can be used depending on the specific nuance required. Understanding its proper usage, as informed by the examples and analysis, can help writers communicate more effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kindly specify

More formal and polite way to request specific details.

could you clarify

Asks for a clearer explanation of something already mentioned.

please elaborate

Requests a more detailed explanation or expansion on a topic.

indicate precisely

Emphasizes the need for accuracy and exactness in the information provided.

specify clearly

Requests explicit and unambiguous details.

describe in detail

Asks for a comprehensive account of something.

provide details on

Requests particular pieces of information about a subject.

can you mention

A more direct request to include something in a response.

name specifically

Requests a precise identification or naming of something.

list concisely

Asks for a brief and succinct enumeration of items.

FAQs

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

You can use "please state" to politely request information, such as, "Please state your full name and address for our records" or "If you disagree, please state your reasons".

What are some alternatives to "please state"?

Alternatives include "kindly specify", "could you clarify", or "please elaborate" depending on the level of detail you need.

Is "please state" too formal for casual communication?

Yes, "please state" is generally considered formal. In casual communication, you might prefer phrases like "can you tell me?" or "what is...?".

What is the difference between "please state" and "please explain"?

"Please state" typically requests a concise piece of information, whereas "please explain" asks for a more detailed explanation or reasoning. The phrase "please elaborate" may also be suitable.