Yes, it is perfectly acceptable and grammatically correct to end a sentence with "please." In fact, it is a very common and polite way to phrase a request.
Understanding "Please" in a Sentence
"Please" functions as an adverb that acts as an interjection, adding politeness to requests or commands. Its flexibility in placement within a sentence contributes to its widespread use. It can appear at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of a sentence without compromising clarity or correctness.
Placement and Punctuation Rules
While "please" can be placed anywhere, its position often influences the necessary punctuation, particularly comma usage.
- Beginning of a Sentence: When "please" starts a sentence, it is often followed by a comma, especially in longer requests, to create a slight pause.
- Example: Please, close the door quietly.
- Middle of a Sentence: If "please" is inserted into the middle of a sentence, it is typically set off by commas on both sides.
- Example: Could you, please, hand me that wrench?
- End of a Sentence: When "please" concludes a sentence, you should almost always place a comma directly before it. This common placement emphasizes the polite nature of the request.
- Example: Pass the salt, please.
- Example: Could you help me with this, please?
The following table summarizes the common comma rules for "please":
| Placement of "Please" | Comma Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Beginning | Often followed by a comma | Please, send the report. |
| Middle | Enclosed by commas | Would you, please, review this? |
| End | Preceded by a comma (almost always required) | Finish the task by noon, please. |
Why Ending with "Please" is Effective
Ending a sentence with "please" often feels natural and can soften the tone of a request. It maintains a polite and respectful interaction, making the request sound less like a demand and more like an appeal. This placement is particularly effective in conversational settings.
Key takeaways for using "please" at the end of a sentence:
- It's grammatically correct.
- It's a common and polite phrasing.
- Always precede it with a comma for proper punctuation.
