Could you please lend me a pencil?

Meaning: This means asking someone if you can borrow their pencil for a while.

Choice of Words: Lend means to allow someone to use something for a period of time. Pencil is a writing instrument made of graphite or lead enclosed in a wooden or plastic case.

Alternative Expressions

Can you lend me a pencil, please?

Meaning: This sentence is a polite request to borrow a pencil from someone.

Choice of Words: Can is another polite way to ask for something. You refers to the person you are asking. Please is a polite word to use when you are asking for something. Lend means to give something to someone with the expectation that it will be returned. Me refers to the person who is asking for the pencil. A is used before a singular noun. Pencil is the object that is being asked for.

May I borrow a pencil from you?

Meaning: This sentence is a very formal request to borrow a pencil from someone.

Choice of Words: May is the most formal way to ask for something. I refers to the person who is asking for the pencil. Borrow means to ask for something with the intention of returning it. A is used before a singular noun. Pencil is the object that is being asked for. From indicates that the pencil is being requested from a specific person. You refers to the person who is being asked for the pencil.

Related Expressions