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Invitations

When we give somebody an invitation, we ask if they would like to go somewhere or do something or have something. We can use the formal phrase would you like (to) and the more informal phrase do you want (to):

  • Would you like to come to dinner on Friday night?
  • Karen, would you like some cake?
  • Do you want to go for a coffee?

We can accept or reject an invitation. Thanks on its own means ‘yes’:

Accept​

  • A: Frank, would you like a chocolate?
  • B: Yes, please.
  • A: Would you like to come to the cinema with us tonight?
  • B: Thanks. That would be great.

Reject​

  • A: Do you want some more coffee?
  • B: No thanks*. I’m fine.*

A more forceful but polite way of inviting someone to do something is to use an imperative, including emphatic imperatives with do:

  • Come and join us.
  • Do sit down anywhere you like.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask if you want anything.

We often use you’ll have to and you must when we are not specific about the time, for example soon, in the New Year, some time:

  • You’ll have to come over soon. (come over means ‘visit us’)
  • You must come for a walk with us some time.

We can also make invitations with Why don’t you …?:

  • A: Why don’t you join us for lunch on Sunday?
  • B: Thanks, that’s very kind of you.

See also:

  • Imperatives with subject pronouns
  • Imperatives as offers and invitations