por favor

/poɾ faˈβoɾ/
phraseBeginner please
formalinformal

A polite phrase used to make a request or ask for something in a courteous manner.

Por favor, cierra la puerta al salir.

Please close the door when you leave.

¿Podrías ayudarme con esto, por favor?

Could you help me with this, please?

💡

This phrase is essential in Spanish for polite communication. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Related Phrases

por favorcitophrase
a more informal or affectionate way of saying 'please'
si es tan amablephrase
if you would be so kind

💡Pro Tip

Politeness in Spanish

Always use 'por favor' when making requests in Spanish, as it is considered essential for polite communication.

Gold Rule

Placement of 'por favor'

'Por favor' is typically placed at the end of a request, but it can also be placed at the beginning for emphasis.

📖Word Origin

The phrase 'por favor' comes from the Latin 'pro favore,' meaning 'for favor.' It has been used in Spanish for centuries as a polite way to request something.

📝Usage Notes

In Spanish, 'por favor' is used similarly to 'please' in English. It is often placed at the end of a request but can also be used at the beginning for emphasis. Omitting it can sound abrupt or rude.

Word Breakdown

por
for
preposition
+
favor
favor
noun
Diccionario Español-Inglés