Do you mind if I...?

[0191] Could you do me a favor?

🎲 I was wondering if..
English Idioms
All Idioms

Explanation

  • A common and polite way to preface a request for help or assistance.
  • It signals that you are about to ask someone to do something for you.

Origin

  • Combines the polite modal Could with the direct statement of need (do me a favor, meaning an act of kindness or help).
  • Standard English phrase structure.

Synonyms & Related Expressions

  • Can you do me a favor? (Slightly less formal)
  • Would you do me a favor?
  • Can I ask you for a favor?
  • I need a favor. (More direct)
  • Could I ask a favor of you? (Slightly more formal)

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

  • Can you help me out real quick?
  • Need a hand with something, you free?
  • Got a sec? Need your help.

Vulgar/Emphatic: (Usually only if frustrated or joking)

  • Do me a fuckin' favor and... (Aggressive/rude unless joking with close friends)

Milder / More Tentative:

  • I was wondering if you could possibly help me with something?
  • Would you be willing to do me a small favor?

Situational Appropriateness

  • Very versatile, suitable for informal to semi-formal situations.
  • Appropriate for asking friends, colleagues, or even strangers for reasonable help (like directions or reaching something).

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • Unlikely to be misunderstood. It clearly signals a request is coming. The listener might be wary depending on previous interactions (if the asker often asks for big favors).

Examples

  • Excuse me, could you do me a favor? I need help reaching that top shelf.
  • Hey, if you're not busy, could you do me a favor?
  • John, could you do me a favor and watch my bag for a minute?

Dialogue

Anna: Hey Mark, could you do me a favor?

Mark: Sure Anna, what's up?

Anna: I have to step out for an urgent call. Could you keep an eye on my computer for five minutes?

Mark: Yeah, no problem at all.

Anna: Thanks, I appreciate it!

Social Media Examples

  • (In a community group): Hi neighbors, could you do me a favor? Has anyone seen a lost tabby cat in the area?
  • (DM to a friend): Hey! Could you do me a favor and remind me what time the party starts Saturday?

Response Patterns

  • Willingness to hear the request: Sure, what is it? / Of course, what do you need? / Depends on the favor! (Playful) / Okay...
  • Hesitation/Inability (less common at this stage): I'm a bit busy right now... / What is it? I can't promise anything.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

  • After the other person agrees to listen (Sure, what is it?): The asker states the actual favor they need. (Could you help me lift this box?)
  • After the favor is stated and agreed upon: The asker usually expresses thanks (Thanks so much!) and the other person performs the favor.

Conversation Starter

  • Yes, directly initiates a request for help.

Intonation

  • Polite, slightly tentative tone. Rising intonation on favor?.
  • Could you do me a FAVOR?

Generation Differences

  • Universal.

Regional Variations

  • Universal.
Do you mind if I...?
🎲 I was wondering if..