7 English Expressions for Making Demands Politely
Do you know the verb "insist"? It means "to demand something without accepting refusal."
Insisting might seem rude, but it depends on the situation. For example, when serving guests, insisting is a sign of hospitality.
But in professional settings, when plans and prices are sensitive, it may be necessary to insist for the sake of the business.
So how can you insist politely? Here are seven expressions you can use to do just that.
Phrases for Making Demands Politely
I must insist
This is the simplest way to make a strong request. It's bold while still being polite.
I must insist that you let us pay for dinner.
I must insist that we meet to discuss the project's status ASAP.
I can’t budge
"Budge" is a verb meaning "to move slightly." It's used in a literal sense when talking about very heavy objects.
We tried pushing the big rock, but it wouldn't budge.
Used figuratively, being unable to budge means you cannot — or will not — change something, such as a price or other details of an agreement.
We'll need delivery by January 31. I'm afraid we can't budge on that date.
I talked to a representative, and he says they can't budge on the price.
As far as I can go
Use this phrase to politely express that you've reached your limit on something.
After discussing it with my supervisor, $30 per pound is as far as I can go.
We can offer a 10% discount, but that's as far as we can go.
I’m not prepared to __ more
Use this expression with verbs such as "pay" or "offer" to talk about the maximum you can do.
I'm sorry, but we aren't prepared to offer more than our original amount.
I'm not prepared to pay more unless you can guarantee faster delivery.
Non-negotiable
As you might have guessed, something non-negotiable cannot be negotiated. In other words, it must be part of the agreement without being changed.
We're flexible on the price, but delivery within three weeks is non-negotiable.
These points are non-negotiable.
Off the table
In negotiation, something "on the table" can be discussed and debated. Something "off the table," however, is not available or can't be negotiated.
Our offer will be off the table soon, so please make your decision quickly.
Not take no for an answer
This bold phrase means you're determined to make your negotiating partner agree to your requirements.
Rather than saying this directly to clients or customers, people often use it among colleagues when discussing an important meeting or project.
We need to close this deal tonight, so don't take no for an answer.
It's also common in casual situations, such as when extending friendly invitations.
You have to join us for dinner tonight, and I'm afraid we won't take no for an answer.
Wrap-up
Flexibility is important in many areas of life. In business, however, there are times when accepting alternatives is impossible or simply too risky. Prepare for these situations by learning these polite ways to make demands.
Remember that your words, facial expression and tone of voice all work together to create a polite, professional feeling, so be sure to use them all!
If you'd like some practice making demands politely, book a lesson with an Engoo tutor to prepare for your negotiations!
