Kindly vs. Please

Attribute	Kindly	Please
Politeness	Yes	Yes
Formality	Formal	Formal
Request	Yes	Yes
Usage	More common in British English	More common in American English

Introduction

Kindly and please are two common words used in polite requests or commands. While they may seem similar in meaning, there are subtle differences between the two that can affect the tone and formality of a statement. In this article, we will explore the attributes of kindly and please and discuss when it is appropriate to use each one.

Definition

Kindly is an adverb that is used to make a polite request or command. It is often used in a formal or old-fashioned context. Please, on the other hand, is an adverb that is also used to make a polite request or command, but it is more commonly used in everyday language. Both words are used to show politeness and respect towards the person being addressed.

Formality

One of the main differences between kindly and please is the level of formality they convey. Kindly is considered to be more formal and old-fashioned compared to please. Kindly is often used in written communication or in formal settings, such as business emails or letters. Please, on the other hand, is more casual and is used in everyday conversations or informal written communication.

Usage

Kindly is often used when making a request or command that requires a certain level of formality or respect. For example, "Kindly send me the report by the end of the day" is a polite way to ask someone to do something. Please, on the other hand, is used in a wide range of situations, from asking for a favor to ordering food at a restaurant. It is a versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Tone

The tone of a statement can be affected by the use of kindly or please. Kindly tends to convey a more formal and respectful tone, while please is more neutral and can be used in a variety of tones, depending on the context. Using kindly can make a request sound more polite and considerate, while please is a more general term that can be used in a friendly or neutral manner.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the differences between kindly and please:

• Kindly pass me the salt, please.
• Please let me know if you need any help.
• Could you kindly close the door behind you?
• Please remember to bring your ID to the event.

Conclusion

In conclusion, kindly and please are both words used to make polite requests or commands, but they differ in terms of formality, usage, and tone. Kindly is more formal and old-fashioned, while please is more casual and versatile. Both words have their own unique attributes and can be used effectively depending on the context. It is important to consider the tone and formality of a statement when choosing between kindly and please.