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Sometimes you really need something quickly. The problem with formal speech is that it can be difficult to express that you are in a hurry. But if you say things too directly, you may sound rude.
So what can you do?
Luckily, there are a few expressions you can use to communicate your rush without sounding impolite. Memorize them so you’ll be ready when the clock is ticking!
As quickly as you can
The first expression on our list is a direct but soft way to say you need something quickly. Don’t forget to use “please”!
We need to send this document to the client today. Please review it as quickly as you can and let me know when you’re finished.
I’d appreciate it if you could hurry
Using “appreciate” shows that you are thanking the person for moving quickly. Expressions like this are mostly used when speaking to someone with a lower rank or position.
In order to make sure this is expressed in a friendly way, you’ll need to have a polite tone of voice and facial expression.
Can you deliver these documents to the finance department, please? I’d appreciate it if you could hurry.
Adding a “thank you” after the other person’s response will also help the communication stay friendly and polite.
If it’s not too much trouble
You can say this any time you ask someone to do something for you. It expresses that you are only making a request, not making a demand.
If it’s not too much trouble, could you look after my son while I go to my doctor’s appointment tomorrow?
If it’s not too much trouble, could you deliver it today by 4?
I’m sorry to rush you
A great way to make an urgent request more polite is by apologizing for it.
I’m sorry to rush you, but it would be great if you could complete it before the end of the day.
I'm sorry to rush you, but we're behind schedule, so I need those documents quickly.
It would be great if ~
This expression communicates that you would like something done quickly but without putting too much pressure on the other person. Therefore, if it is very important that something be done by a certain time, you should use a different expression.
It would be great if you could finish cleaning before our guests arrive.
You can replace "great" with other positive adjectives, such as "fantastic" or "awesome."
It would be fantastic if we could get all of this done in the next few hours.
I’ll need that soon
This expression is a bit more direct than the others we’ve listed so far. Again, it’s best if you have a higher position than the person you’re speaking with, but you can combine it with some other expressions to make it sound softer.
I’m sorry to trouble you, but I’ll need that before I leave the office today.
ASAP
This is a common acronym that is short for “as soon as possible.” It is also the most direct way to request something quickly on our list. Combine it with an apology to make it softer.
I’m sorry, but I need that information ASAP.
I don’t mean to rush you, but could you call me ASAP so we can discuss the event tomorrow?
This is a priority
A priority is something that is more important than other things. In both work and everyday situations, priority tasks are completed before everything else.
I know you have other things to work on, but this project is a priority now.
You can also use the verb form “prioritize.”
Could you prioritize this assignment before working on other tasks? Thanks so much.
Wrap-up
Addressing people with respect and politeness is necessary for keeping good relationships with your colleagues. This is true even in urgent situations.
Use the expressions introduced here along with a polite tone of voice and a smile to help you get what you need while keeping your relationships healthy and strong. Learn them now so you’ll be ready when you need them!
For more useful business phrases, this article introduces seven expressions for making demands politely. Check it out!
- politeness
- requests
