would you mind

USAGE SUMMARY

"Would you mind..." is a perfectly acceptable phrase which can be used in written English.
It is a polite way of asking someone to do something. For example, "Would you mind carrying this box for me?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Would you mind that?" "No.

The New Yorker

"Would you mind doing that?

The New Yorker

Would you mind?

The New York Times

"Would you mind making room?

The New Yorker

Would you mind not!" "Sorry," he mutters.

The Guardian - Film

Would you mind getting up and going?

The New York Times - Arts

"Would you mind making the rice?

The New York Times

Would you mind being in it?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Would you mind awfully if I don't?

The New Yorker

Would you mind — " I SAID NO PROMISES.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Would you mind?" I asked.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "would you mind" with a gerund (verb + -ing) for actions or "if" clauses to inquire about permission. For example, "Would you mind waiting here?" or "Would you mind if I opened the window?"

Common error

Avoid using the infinitive form of the verb after "would you mind". It's incorrect to say "Would you mind to close the window?". The correct form is "Would you mind closing the window?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "would you mind" functions as a polite interrogative request. It is used to ask someone to do something, often implying a potential inconvenience. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "would you mind" is a versatile and polite way to make requests or ask for permission. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage in written English. As highlighted by Ludwig's examples, it is widely used across diverse contexts, from news articles to everyday conversations. Remember to follow it with a gerund or an "if" clause, and be prepared to offer or accept polite refusals. By mastering this phrase, you enhance your ability to communicate respectfully and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if you wouldn't mind

More casual and less insistent way to make a request.

could you please

Direct request, less emphasis on potential inconvenience.

would you be willing to

Focuses on willingness rather than potential objection.

is it okay if you

Seeks permission or confirmation of acceptance.

can you

More direct and less formal request.

is it possible for you to

Emphasizes feasibility and capability.

may I ask you to

Highly formal and polite request.

would it be too much to ask

Highlights the potential burden of the request.

do you think you could

Expresses uncertainty and seeks agreement.

I was wondering if you could

Indirect approach to making a request.

FAQs

How do I politely refuse a request made with "would you mind"?

You can politely refuse by saying "I'm sorry, I can't" or "I'm afraid I'm unable to". Giving a brief explanation can also help soften the refusal.

What does it mean when someone asks "would you mind"?

It means they are asking you to do something, often something that might be slightly inconvenient for you. It is a polite way of making a request.

Is "would you mind" formal or informal?

It is generally considered polite and can be used in both formal and informal situations, though it leans slightly towards the formal side.

What can I say instead of "would you mind" if I want to be more direct?

You could use phrases like "could you please" or "can you", but be aware that these are less polite and more direct.