I'd like to… & polite complaints
Would like / I'd like to and polite requests for returns, using Unit 26 words.
For polite requests and complaints in shops we use I'd like (to)…, Is it possible to…?, and Could I…?. Every example uses this unit's shopping-problem vocabulary.
A — How it works
I'd like + noun / to + verb is more polite than 'I want'. Is it possible to…? softens a request.
1) I'd like (to)… — polite request
Ask for something politely.
- I'd like a refund, please.
- I'd like to return this jacket.
- I'd like to exchange it for a larger size.
- I'd like to speak to the manager.
2) Is it possible to…? / Could I…?
Very polite requests and questions.
- Is it possible to get a refund without the box?
- Could I exchange this if it's faulty?
- Is it possible to try a size larger?
- Could I have proof of purchase for the warranty?
The rest of this lesson is in the General English course:
- B — Quick reference
- Remember
Try it: Choose the correct form
Select the best option.
- I'd like ___ return this jacket.
(a) to (b) - (c) for - I'd like a ___, please. (money back)
(a) refund (b) faulty (c) warranty - Is it ___ to get a refund?
(a) possible (b) possibly (c) possibility - ___ I exchange this if it's faulty?
(a) Could (b) Do (c) Am - I'd like to ___ to the manager.
(a) speak (b) speaking (c) spoke - Most polite:
(a) Is it possible to get a refund? (b) Give me a refund. (c) I want a refund.
Check your answers in the course — it marks them instantly. This is one of the unit's 3 exercises; the other 2 are in the General English course too.
Practise this unit in the course →