How to say "Please" in French

Meaning

A polite word used to make a request or demand less direct, equivalent to 'please' in English.

Usage

Use 'S'il vous plaît' when addressing someone formally or in general polite contexts. It is the standard way to say 'please' in French. Avoid using it with close friends or family; 's'il te plaît' is more appropriate there.

Example sentences

• Could you pass the salt, please?

  Pourriez-vous me passer le sel, s'il vous plaît?

• Please sit down.

  Asseyez-vous, s'il vous plaît.

Related expressions

• S'il te plaît— A more casual way to say 'please' when speaking to friends, family, or children.

  Use 's'il te plaît' in informal settings.

• Merci— A word used to express gratitude, often paired with 's'il vous plaît'.

  Always respond with 'merci' after a request is fulfilled.