Meaning
Used to ask someone to say the letters of a word.
Cultural Background
Americans often use this when dealing with names of diverse origins to show respect. In the UK, it is common to add 'please' to avoid sounding like a teacher. In international business, asking for spelling is standard to avoid costly errors in contracts.
Add 'Please'
Adding 'please' makes you sound much more polite.
Use for Names
Always use this for names you don't recognize.
Meaning
Used to ask someone to say the letters of a word.
Add 'Please'
Adding 'please' makes you sound much more polite.
Use for Names
Always use this for names you don't recognize.
Test Yourself
Select the correct sentence.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
After 'could', use the base verb 'spell'.
Fill in the missing word.
Could you _____ that?
The base form is required.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesWhich sentence is grammatically correct?
After 'could', use the base verb 'spell'.
Could you _____ that?
The base form is required.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it is very polite and helpful.
Yes, it is perfect for emails.
Ask them to write it down.
Yes, it is fine for casual use.
It is softer and more polite.
It is recommended but not required.
Related Phrases
How do you spell that?
synonymAsking for the spelling.
Spell it out
builds onExplain clearly.
