Guide 81 / 200 3 alternatives 2-minute read
Better ways to say “I would like to”
Four words before the verb that does the work.
i · Why avoid itTwo lines, no filler
The phrase buys you time to warm up to saying something. In most cases the verb alone is clearer and more confident. "Announce," "propose," "suggest" — the active verb is the thing.
ii · Before & afterDrop-in demo
Before
I would like to propose a small change to the agenda.
After
I propose a small change to the agenda.
iii · The alternatives3 ways out
- 01[the verb directly] neutral
almost always the best
I propose a change.
- 02Let me neutral
conversational opener
Let me propose a small change.
- 03Allow me to formal
formal speech openings
Allow me to propose a small change.
iv · Brew tipKeep this one
If "I'd like to tell you that X" sounds wrong, you have the right instinct. Just say X.