English Grammar: Would You Mind vs. Do You Mind

WOULD YOU MIND and DO YOU MIND

Table of Contents

1. Structure and Usage

The phrases “Would you mind” and “Do you mind” are both used to ask for permission or make polite requests. They are followed by a verb in the base form (infinitive) or a gerund (verb ending in -ing).

  • “Would you mind + verb-ing?”
  • “Do you mind + verb-ing?”

2. Examples

To further illustrate the usage and meaning of these phrases, let’s look at some examples:

  1. Would you mind opening the window? It’s getting a bit stuffy in here.
  2. Do you mind lending me your pen for a moment? I need to jot down a quick note.
  3. Would you mind turning down the volume? I’m trying to concentrate.
  4. Do you mind helping me carry these bags? They’re quite heavy.
  5. Would you mind waiting for a few minutes? I’ll be right back.

3. FAQs

Yes, both phrases are used to make polite requests or ask for permission. However, “Would you mind” is considered slightly more formal.

No, these phrases are used to ask for permission or make requests. If you want to refuse a request, you can use phrases like “I’m sorry, but I can’t” or “I’d rather not.”

It is not necessary, but using these phrases adds politeness and shows consideration for the other person.

Yes, these phrases can be used in both formal and informal contexts to ask for permission or make requests.

Yes, there are alternative phrases such as “Could you please,” “Is it okay if,” or “May I.

Yes, you can use these phrases in negative sentences to make a polite request. For example, “Would you mind not smoking here?” or “Do you mind not talking during the movie?”

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