How to Say “Could you please～.” in Japanese | 〜んですが、～ていただけませんか (〜n desu ga ～te itadakemasen ka) | JLPT N4 Grammar

2025/10/31

In Japanese, showing consideration when making a request is very important.

The expression “〜んですが、〜ていただけませんか” is one of the most natural and polite ways to ask someone for help.

Instead of saying the direct “〜てください,” this pattern lets you introduce your situation first (“〜んですが”) and then make a gentle request (“〜ていただけませんか”).
It’s perfect for conversations with teachers, colleagues, or people you don’t know well.

When and How It’s Used

The expression “〜んですが、〜ていただけませんか” is used when you want to make a polite and considerate request.

It’s especially common when speaking to someone older, higher in status, or not very close to you.

The first part, “〜んですが”, introduces your situation, reason, or context.

It prepares the listener for your upcoming request, showing that you’re not asking abruptly.
This part often reflects Japanese indirect communication, where politeness and empathy are highly valued.

Then comes “〜ていただけませんか”, a formal and respectful version of “〜てください.”
It literally means “Would you not be able to do〜?” — but in natural English, it translates to “Could you please〜?”

By combining these two parts, the whole sentence sounds soft, respectful, and natural, as if you’re saying:

“I have a small problem… would you mind helping me?”

You can use this expression in various everyday situations, such as:

• Asking for help or service politely (at a store, office, or restaurant)
  
• Requesting someone to do something in a business setting
  
• Speaking carefully to avoid sounding demanding
  

Compare the difference:

エアコンをつけてください。　eakon o tsukete kudasai
(Turn on the air conditioner.) — clear but rather direct.

暑いんですが、エアコンをつけていただけませんか。 atsuinndesu ga, eakon o tsukete itadakemasen ka. 

(It’s hot… could you please turn on the air conditioner?) — polite, thoughtful, and natural.

The first version is grammatically fine but sounds like a command.
The second version adds a touch of emotional awareness, making the request smoother and more socially appropriate.

See How It’s Used in Conversation

This video will help you understand how ～んですが、～ていただけませんか is used in everyday Japanese conversations. Watch and repeat to improve your listening and speaking skills!

Sentence Pattern

[Situation in plain form] ＋ んですが、 ＋ [request in 〜ていただけませんか]

Example:

すみません、暑いんですが、エアコンをつけていただけませんか。
(Excuse me, it’s hot… could you please turn on the air conditioner?)

Examples

①レポートを書いたんですが、見ていただけませんか。

repōto o kaita n desu ga, mite itadakemasen ka.

(I have written a report, could you please take a look at it?)

②ちょっと道に迷ったんですが、駅までの行き方を教えていただけませんか。

Chotto michi ni mayottan desu ga, eki made no ikikata o oshiete itadakemasen ka.

(I seem to be lost… could you please tell me how to get to the station?)

③暑いんですが、エアコンをつけていただけませんか。

Atsui n desu ga, eakon o tsukete itadakemasen ka.

(It’s hot… could you please turn on the air conditioner?)

In Summary

The pattern “〜んですが、〜ていただけませんか” helps you make polite and natural requests.
It expresses your situation first, softens your tone, and shows respect.

Use this form when talking to someone senior, in formal settings, or when you want to sound thoughtful.
It’s not just good grammar — it’s a reflection of Japanese politeness and empathy.

Next time you need to ask for help, try saying:

“すみません、〜んですが、〜ていただけませんか。”

It’s the perfect phrase for kind and respectful communication.

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