Is there a right or wrong way to ask someone to do something? The other day I said to my husband, "Do you think you can fax this paper for me?" He said that was insulting and I should say "Can you fax this paper for me?" Thoughts??
Learn English – Can you vs. Do you think you can
meaningmeaning-in-contextword-choiceword-usage
Best Answer
A- "Do you think " is used for asking someone politely to do something.
E.g.:
Do you think you could pass me my bag?
Do you think you can fax this paper for me?.... is not impolite or insulting.
B- "Do you think " is used for asking someone's opinion
E.g.
Do you think we'll get this finished on time?
And why not keep the request simple and pleasing to the ear.
Please, can you fax....
Can you fax...please.