JLPT N5 Grammar – The difference between “〜てください” and “〜てくださいませんか”
Table of Contents
1. The difference between “〜てください” and “〜てくださいませんか”
2. 〜てください
3. 〜てくださいませんか
4. Let’s Compare
5. Summary
6. Similar Articles
7. Comments
Q: What is the difference between “〜てください” and “〜てくださいませんか”?
A: Both expressions are used when you want someone to do something, but they differ in their level of politeness.
In this article, we clearly explain their meanings, how to use them, and the nuances of each expression. We also introduce example sentences for different situations and tips on how to choose the right one.
〜てください (JLPT N5)
[Meaning]
Used when making a simple request to someone
[Rule]
[V] Verb て form + ください
[Situations where it is used]
Teacher → student
Store clerk → customer
Between coworkers
More formal than with friends, but not overly formal depending on the relationship
[Examples]
こちらに名前を書いてください。
Please write your name here.
もう一度説明してください。
Please explain it one more time.
ドアを閉めてください。
Please close the door.
This expression can sometimes sound slightly close to giving an instruction.
For this reason, in situations where you want to be more considerate toward the other person, you may choose a more polite expression.
[Examples]
ちょっと待ってください。
Please wait a moment.
名前を教えててください。
Please tell me your name.
〜てくださいませんか (JLPT N5)
[Meaning]
Used when making a polite and modest request
It is ideal in business, customer service, and formal situations where you want to show a high level of politeness
[Rule]
[V] Verb て form + くださいませんか
[Situations where it is used]
When speaking to a superior for the first time
To business partners or customers
In public institutions or formal emails
When you want to make the request as politely as possible
[Examples]
この漢字の読み方を教えてくださいませんか。
Could you please tell me how to read this kanji?
すみません、窓を開けてくださいませんか。
Excuse me, could you please open the window?
辞書を忘れてしまったので、貸してくださいませんか。
I forgot my dictionary, so could you please lend me yours?
This expression is even more polite than “してくれませんか.”
It carries a soft nuance, as if saying “It’s perfectly fine if it’s difficult for you.”
It is a refined, humble way of speaking that shows respect toward the other person.
[Examples]
写真を撮ってくださいませんか。
Could you please take a picture?
もう一度説明してくださいませんか。
Could you please explain it one more time?
Let’s Compare
Among request expressions, “〜てください” and “〜てくださいませんか” differ greatly in their level of politeness.
Both are used when you want someone to do something, but the expression you choose can change the impression you give to the other person.
[Examples]
① ドアを閉めてください。
② ドアを閉めてくださいませんか。
① is a simple request and can sound slightly instructional.
② is a very polite expression and gives a modest impression, similar to saying “if it’s alright with you.”
■ Difference in “strength” of the request
〜てください
⇒ This means “Please do 〜,” but depending on the situation, it can sometimes sound a little close to a command. (Example: instructions from store staff, directions given at school)
〜てくださいませんか
⇒ A softer expression that makes a request while respecting the other person’s position.
Because it reduces the “pressure” of the request, it is easier for the listener to refuse if necessary.
■ Difference in distance between the speaker and listener
〜てください
⇒ Used with people who are close to you: coworkers, students, or in everyday conversation.
〜てくださいませんか
⇒ Used with people you are not close to or must show respect for: first meetings, business partners, superiors, and customers.
Please take a look at this article as well.
Honorifics – The difference between
“〜いただけませんか” and “〜くださいませんか”
Summary
| Expression | Politeness | Nuance | Common Situations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 〜てください | ★★★ | Polite but standard. It can sometimes sound a little more like an instruction than a request | Workplace, school, store staff to customers, everyday conversation |
| 〜てくださいませんか | ★★★★★ | Very polite and humble. It gives a soft impression, as if saying “If it’s not too much trouble” | Business settings, first meetings, request emails, talking to superiors |
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