In 15 Sekunden
- Politely ask for the restaurant bill.
- Signals you're finished eating.
- Common in US/Canada, 'Bill, please' in UK.
- Use in sit-down restaurants, not fast food.
Bedeutung
Dies ist die Standardmethode, um einem Kellner mitzuteilen, dass Sie mit dem Essen fertig sind und für Ihre Mahlzeit bezahlen möchten. Es ist ein höfliches Signal, dass das Essenserlebnis beendet ist und Sie bereit sind, die Rechnung zu begleichen.
Wichtige Beispiele
3 von 12Texting a friend after dinner
That was a great meal! I'll grab the check this time.
That was a great meal! I'll grab the check this time.
At a casual café
We're all finished here. Check, please!
We're all finished here. Check, please!
Job interview debrief lunch
Thank you for the lunch. Check, please.
Thank you for the lunch. Check, please.
Kultureller Hintergrund
The check is almost never the final price. You must add a tip (18-20%) and often sales tax is added at the end too. Waiters consider it rude to bring the check without being asked. They want you to take your time and enjoy the table. Tipping is not practiced. When you ask for the check, you are often given a small clipboard to take to the front door to pay. While 'Check, please' is understood due to American movies, 'The bill, please' is the natural local choice.
The Air-Pen Gesture
If the restaurant is loud, make eye contact with your server and pretend to write in the air with your hand. They will understand immediately.
Don't Snap Your Fingers
Never snap your fingers or whistle to get a waiter's attention for the check. It is considered very rude in English-speaking cultures.
In 15 Sekunden
- Politely ask for the restaurant bill.
- Signals you're finished eating.
- Common in US/Canada, 'Bill, please' in UK.
- Use in sit-down restaurants, not fast food.
What It Means
This phrase is your polite way of telling a server, like a waiter or waitress, that you're done eating. You want them to bring you the bill so you can pay. It's a very common and useful expression in restaurants. It signals the end of your meal. It's like saying, 'I've enjoyed my food, and now I'm ready for the next step: paying!' It's efficient and gets straight to the point. It's not rude; it's just practical. Imagine you're at your favorite diner, the food was amazing, and you're ready to head out. This is exactly what you'd say!
How To Use It
Use Check, please when you've finished your meal in a restaurant or café. You can say it to your server directly. Sometimes you can even make eye contact and a subtle hand gesture. This is especially true if the place is busy. You might also say it when the server asks if you need anything else. It's a versatile phrase for payment. You can use it after dessert or coffee. It works even if you only had a main course. It's the go-to phrase for this situation. Don't overthink it; just use it when you're ready to pay.
Formality & Register
This phrase is quite flexible. It leans towards neutral but can be used in slightly informal or formal settings. It's not super casual like slang. It's also not overly formal like something from a Shakespeare play. Think of it as your reliable everyday phrase. It's suitable for most restaurants, from fast-casual to slightly upscale. You wouldn't typically use it in a very high-end, white-glove service environment. Those places might have more elaborate ways of presenting the bill. But for 95% of dining situations, it's perfect. It's polite enough for most people.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine you're at a bustling Italian restaurant. You've just finished your pasta. You catch the waiter's eye and say, Check, please. He nods and returns with your bill. Or perhaps you're at a coffee shop after a long chat with a friend. You've had your lattes and pastries. You signal the barista, Check, please. They'll bring over the payment terminal. It's also common in movies. Characters often say it dramatically before leaving a scene. Think of that spy movie where they slam down cash and say, Check, please! and vanish. It’s a classic cinematic move.
When To Use It
Use Check, please when you are completely finished with your meal. You've eaten everything and don't plan on ordering anything else. You want the bill to pay and leave. It's appropriate in most sit-down dining establishments. This includes cafes, diners, pubs, and restaurants. Use it when you want to be clear and concise. It's also good when you're short on time. If you have a meeting or a train to catch, this phrase is your best friend. It’s the ultimate ‘I’m done’ signal for your wallet.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use Check, please if you haven't finished eating. It can seem rude if you're still chewing your main course. Avoid it if you want to order dessert or another drink. It signals finality, so make sure you mean it! Also, avoid it in very casual settings where payment is different. For example, at a food truck or a buffet, you usually pay upfront. You wouldn't ask for the 'check' afterward. It's also not for fast-food places where you order at the counter. They expect payment immediately. So, know your dining context!
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes try to be too polite or too direct. They might say something like, Could I possibly have the bill when you have a moment, if it's not too much trouble? This is way too wordy! Or they might just wave frantically and yell, Bill! which is impolite. Another mistake is using it at the wrong time. Asking for the check while still enjoying your appetizer is a no-go. The phrase itself is simple, but timing and tone matter. Remember, it's about being clear, not overly elaborate or abrupt. A smile helps too!
Common Variations
In British English, you're more likely to hear Bill, please. It means exactly the same thing. It's just a regional difference. Some people might say Can I get the bill? or Could we have the bill? These are slightly more formal variations. In very casual settings, especially with friends, you might just say Ready to pay? or Let's settle up. If you're texting a friend about meeting up later, you might say, I'll grab the check. But in a restaurant, stick to the classic. It's universally understood. It’s like the default setting for paying.
Real Conversations
Scenario 1: At a casual café
Speaker 1: That was a delicious scone! I'm stuffed.
Speaker 2: Me too! Ready to go?
Speaker 1: Yep. Check, please! (to the server)
Scenario 2: Slightly more formal dinner
Waiter
Customer
Check, please.Waiter
Scenario 3: Texting after a meal
Friend 1: That was fun! Let's do it again soon.
Friend 2: Definitely! I'll Venmo you my half of the bill later.
Friend 1: Sounds good. I handled the check this time.
Quick FAQ
Q. Is Check, please rude?
A. Not at all! It's a standard, polite phrase. Just say it with a pleasant tone. A smile helps too. It's efficient communication.
Q. What if I want to order dessert first?
A. Don't say Check, please then! Wait until you're truly done. You can say, Could we see the dessert menu? instead. This avoids confusion.
Q. Can I use this in any country?
A. In English-speaking countries, yes! In other countries, learn the local phrase. Google Translate might help, but local phrases are best. It's like knowing the secret handshake.
Q. What's the difference between Check and Bill?
A. In American English, check is common for restaurant bills. In British English, bill is the standard term. Both mean the same thing in this context. It's a bit like chips vs. fries. Same deliciousness, different name!
Q. Can I just say Check?
A. You *can*, but it's less polite. Adding please makes it softer and more standard. It’s the difference between asking and demanding. You want to be a polite diner, right?
Q. What if the waiter is busy?
A. Be patient for a moment. Make eye contact first. If they still seem rushed, a quiet Check, please should work. Avoid shouting across the room. That’s a recipe for awkwardness.
Q. Can I use it for takeout orders?
A. Not usually. Takeout is typically paid for when you order. You don't usually sit down and then ask for the bill. It’s for dine-in situations. Think table service, not counter service.
Q. Is it appropriate for fast food?
A. No, fast food is usually paid for at the counter when you order. You don't get a separate bill afterward. This phrase is for places where you eat first, then pay. It’s a fundamental dining difference.
Q. What if I want to split the bill?
A. You can ask for the check first, then say, Could we split this? Or you can ask upfront: Could we get separate checks? It's good to clarify early. Don't assume everyone wants to split evenly. Some people are math wizards, others less so!
Q. Can I use this in a bar?
A. Yes, if you're sitting down and ordering drinks or food. If you're just ordering at the bar counter, you usually pay immediately. It depends on how the service works. Bars can be tricky! It's like navigating a maze sometimes.
Q. What's a more formal way to ask?
A. You could say, May I have the bill, please? or Could you bring us the bill when you have a moment? These are perfectly polite but a bit longer. Check, please is just faster. It’s the express lane of bill requests.
Q. What if I want to leave a tip?
A. You usually add the tip to the payment. You can calculate it before or after you get the check. Sometimes there's a line on the credit card slip. Or you can leave cash. The phrase Check, please just gets you the bill. Tipping is a separate, important step! Don't forget it; servers work hard!
Q. Can I use it in a hotel restaurant?
A. Yes, absolutely. If you're dining in a hotel restaurant and being served at a table, Check, please works perfectly. It's standard practice. Unless you're charging it to your room, then you might handle it differently at checkout. Hotels have their own systems sometimes.
Q. What about ordering food via an app?
A. Apps usually handle payment digitally upfront. So, you won't need to say Check, please after eating. The app is your virtual waiter and cashier combined. It's super convenient, but it means you miss out on this classic phrase. Technology marches on!
Q. Is it okay to say it loudly?
A. No, definitely not! A loud CHECK, PLEASE! can sound demanding or impatient. Use a normal speaking voice. Try to make eye contact with your server first. A gentle call is much better. Think polite request, not a royal decree.
Q. What if I'm dining alone?
A. Check, please works perfectly when you're dining solo! It's direct and efficient. You don't need to worry about anyone else's timing. Just signal your server when you're ready. It’s your personal dinner finale signal.
Q. Can I use this in a food court?
A. Generally no. Food courts usually require payment at each individual stall when you order. There isn't a single bill to request afterward. It’s more like a collection of fast-food joints. So, you pay as you go. No check, please needed here.
Q. What's the vibe of Check, please?
A. It's practical, polite, and signals completion. It's friendly but focused on the task of paying. It's the verbal equivalent of closing a laptop after work. You're done, you're satisfied, and you're ready for the next thing. It’s efficient, not emotional.
Q. Is this phrase common in Canada?
A. Yes, Check, please is very common in Canada. Canadian English is very similar to American English in this regard. You'll hear it frequently in restaurants across the country. It's the standard phrase for requesting the bill. Canadians are polite, so adding please is natural!
Q. How do I say this if I'm paying with cash?
A. You can still say Check, please. The server will bring the bill, and you can then hand them the cash. You might even say, Check, please. I’ll be paying cash. This lets them know upfront. It helps them make change if needed. It’s a helpful heads-up.
Q. What if I want to compliment the food AND ask for the bill?
A. You can combine them! Try: Everything was delicious, thank you! Check, please. This is a great way to show appreciation while still signaling you're ready to leave. It’s like giving a high-five before saying goodbye. Servers appreciate the kindness!
Nutzungshinweise
This phrase is standard for requesting a bill in dine-in restaurants, particularly in North America. While generally neutral, adding 'Excuse me' or using a pleasant tone enhances politeness. Avoid using it in fast-food settings or before you've finished your meal, as it implies finality.
The Air-Pen Gesture
If the restaurant is loud, make eye contact with your server and pretend to write in the air with your hand. They will understand immediately.
Don't Snap Your Fingers
Never snap your fingers or whistle to get a waiter's attention for the check. It is considered very rude in English-speaking cultures.
The 'No Rush' Addition
If you want the check but aren't in a hurry to leave, say 'Check, please—no rush!' This is very polite and lets the waiter know they can take their time.
Tipping is Expected
In the US, asking for the check is the start of the tipping process. Be prepared to calculate 20%!
Beispiele
12That was a great meal! I'll grab the check this time.
That was a great meal! I'll grab the check this time.
Here, 'grab the check' is a casual way to say 'pay the bill'. It implies taking responsibility for settling the payment.
We're all finished here. Check, please!
We're all finished here. Check, please!
Directly asking the server for the bill after finishing the meal. The exclamation mark adds a touch of cheerful finality.
Thank you for the lunch. Check, please.
Thank you for the lunch. Check, please.
Used professionally to signal the end of the meal and the readiness to conclude the meeting. It's polite and efficient.
Amazing brunch vibes today! 🥞🍳 #foodie #weekend #CheckPlease
Amazing brunch vibes today! 🥞🍳 #foodie #weekend #CheckPlease
Used here as a hashtag, often humorously or to signify the end of the dining experience being documented.
Looks delicious! Definitely going to ask for the `check, please` next time I'm there.
Looks delicious! Definitely going to ask for the `check, please` next time I'm there.
Referencing the phrase in the context of planning a future visit, showing its common usage.
Everything was excellent. May we have the check, please?
Everything was excellent. May we have the check, please?
A slightly more formal variation using 'May we have...' before the standard phrase. Still polite and clear.
✗ We're still eating our appetizers, but check, please? → ✓ We're still eating our appetizers, but could we get the bill later?
✗ We're still eating our appetizers, but check, please? → ✓ We're still eating our appetizers, but could we get the bill later?
Asking for the check before the main course is finished is premature and can be awkward.
Wow, that was... a lot. Check, please!
Wow, that was... a lot. Check, please!
Used humorously to indicate relief that the potentially awkward or long meal is over.
This has been such a wonderful evening. Thank you. Check, please.
This has been such a wonderful evening. Thank you. Check, please.
Said softly after a meaningful experience, balancing gratitude with the practical need to conclude.
✗ The grub was good. Check, please. → ✓ The meal was good. Check, please.
✗ The grub was good. Check, please. → ✓ The meal was good. Check, please.
`Grub` is very informal slang and might sound out of place in a more formal dining context where `check, please` is already neutral.
Alright guys, I'm heading out soon. Check, please!
Alright guys, I'm heading out soon. Check, please!
Signaling to the group and the server that you're ready to pay and depart.
After that dramatic scene, he slammed his fist on the table and yelled, 'Check, please!'
After that dramatic scene, he slammed his fist on the table and yelled, 'Check, please!'
Referencing the common trope in films where the phrase is used for emphasis or a quick exit.
Teste dich selbst
Choose the most natural way to ask for the bill in a New York diner.
You have finished your coffee and are ready to leave. What do you say?
'Check, please' is the standard American expression.
Complete the sentence to be more polite.
Could we _______ the check, please?
'Could we get the check' is a very common and polite variation.
Match the phrase to the location.
Where would you say 'Check, please' vs 'Bill, please'?
'Check' is American; 'Bill' is British.
Fill in the missing line in this restaurant dialogue.
Waiter: 'Would you like to see the dessert menu?' Customer: 'No thank you, ________.'
Asking for the check is the standard way to decline dessert when you are ready to leave.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Where to use 'Check, please'
Use it here
- • Diners
- • Cafes
- • Fancy Restaurants
- • Bars
Don't use it here
- • McDonald's
- • Grocery Stores
- • Friend's House
- • Food Trucks
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenYou have finished your coffee and are ready to leave. What do you say?
'Check, please' is the standard American expression.
Could we _______ the check, please?
'Could we get the check' is a very common and polite variation.
Where would you say 'Check, please' vs 'Bill, please'?
'Check' is American; 'Bill' is British.
Waiter: 'Would you like to see the dessert menu?' Customer: 'No thank you, ________.'
Asking for the check is the standard way to decline dessert when you are ready to leave.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Video-Tutorials
Finde Video-Tutorials zu dieser Redewendung auf YouTube.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenNo, as long as you say it with a friendly tone and include 'please'. It is the standard way to ask.
Yes, everyone will understand you, but 'check' is more common.
Just say 'I'll take the check, please' and reach for it when the waiter brings it.
In most sit-down restaurants, you say it to the waiter. If there is a cash register by the door, you might pay there.
Say 'Can we have separate checks, please?' It's best to say this as early as possible.
In American English, it is always 'Check'. In British English, the financial document is a 'Cheque', but the restaurant bill is a 'Bill'.
Wait for them to walk past and say 'Excuse me' quietly, or use the air-writing gesture.
Yes, but 'Can I close my tab?' is more common if you gave them a credit card earlier.
It's a joke! It means 'This situation is so bad I want to pay and leave right now.'
Only if you are in a big hurry. Otherwise, it's better to wait until you are finished.
Verwandte Redewendungen
The bill, please
synonymThe British equivalent.
Separate checks
specialized formAsking for individual bills for each person.
It's on me
builds onI will pay for everyone.
Keep the change
builds onTelling the waiter they can keep the extra money as a tip.
Close my tab
similarAsking to pay for all drinks at a bar.
